Marine Propulsion Function Unlocking With Keycode-Based Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine vessel propulsion systems lack a flexible and cost-effective method to allow users to access only the necessary functions based on individual needs, as traditional lease systems are not applicable and do not account for varying user requirements.
Innovation Solution
A marine vessel propulsion system with a controller that restricts and cancels control operations for limited functions based on inputted or registered keycodes, allowing users to pay for specific functions like increased output, constant speed, autopilot, or assistance device cooperation, with keycodes managed through a communication interface with a keycode server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all functions of the propulsion system are made available to users, then the system provides complete functionality, but users must pay for functions they may not need, increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system functions are segmented into multiple limited functions (e.g., limited starting function, limited propulsive force function). Each function can be independently activated or deactivated based on user needs and payment status, allowing users to pay only for the functions they require rather than subscribing to all functions
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the availability of functions based on keycode validation. The controller can switch between restricted and unrestricted states for different functions, enabling flexible pricing models where users can upgrade or downgrade their service level as needed
2Quantity of substance
If the controller restricts control operations for limited functions, then cost efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases due to restriction and cancellation units
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as the primary control unit for propulsion and as a keycode validation unit. The same controller hardware performs both function management and authentication, avoiding the need for separate dedicated restriction devices and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The restriction unit and restriction cancellation unit are merged into the existing controller architecture. The controller integrates both the propulsion control functions and the keycode verification functions, eliminating the need for separate physical components and simplifying the overall device structure
3Device complexity
If keycodes are managed locally without a server, then system simplicity is maintained, but keycode security and management reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A keycode server is introduced as an intermediary between the user and the controller. The server securely stores keycode data, validates user payments, and distributes authorized keycodes to controllers. This external mediator handles the complex security and management tasks, allowing the local controller to remain simple while achieving high reliability in keycode management
Data Source
AI summary
A marine vessel propulsion system includes a propulsive force generator to generate a propulsive force, a drive source to drive the propulsive force generator, and a controller configured or programmed to control the drive source to perform marine vessel maneuvering-related functions including at least one limited function. The controller includes an interface, and is further configured or programmed to include a restriction unit to restrict a control operation for the limited function, and a restriction cancellation unit to cancel the restriction effected by the restriction unit to permit the control operation for the limited function if a predetermined keycode is inputted from the interface or is registered in the controller.