Marine Vessel Propulsion Control Lever Merging Steering and Thrust
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing marine vessel propulsion systems require complex operations and structures due to the need for multiple operation levers and a cross-shaped key, making them cumbersome for fine control, especially when launching or docking, and are not suitable for small vessels.
Innovation Solution
A marine vessel propulsion system with first and second propulsion devices mounted on a hull, controlled by two operation levers that adjust shift states and power output, using lever position sensors and a control unit to set target pivoting and travel speeds, eliminating the need for a steering mechanism and additional operation systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operation levers and a cross-shaped key are provided separately, then the vessel can be controlled with multiple propulsion devices, but the system structure becomes complex and operations become cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple operation levers into a single operation lever that can control multiple propulsion devices. The single lever integrates the functions of separate levers and the cross-shaped key, allowing the operator to control both the direction and magnitude of thrust from multiple propulsion devices through one unified control mechanism, thereby simplifying the system structure while maintaining full control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single operation lever is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls the shift state (forward, neutral, reverse) of propulsion devices, adjusts power output, and directs thrust distribution. This multi-functional lever replaces what previously required separate operation levers and a cross-shaped key, reducing system complexity while preserving adaptability
2Ease of operation
If a cross-shaped key operation system is added, then fine control during launching and docking is improved, but the number of operation systems increases making operations more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fine control function previously requiring a separate cross-shaped key operation system into the main operation lever. The operation lever can now be tilted in multiple directions (forward, backward, left, right) to provide precise control during launching and docking, eliminating the need for an additional operation system while maintaining fine control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The operation lever is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to be tilted to various angles relative to the neutral position. This dynamic adjustment enables the lever to provide different control commands (direction and magnitude of thrust) depending on its position, achieving fine control without requiring multiple discrete control systems
3Device complexity
If operation levers are used to control both steering and propulsion, then the system structure is simplified, but the control precision for fine maneuvering is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms including lever position sensors that detect the precise position of the operation lever and provide this information to the control unit. The control unit processes this feedback to accurately determine the desired propulsion device states and makes real-time adjustments, ensuring high control precision even though steering and propulsion are controlled through a single lever
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical steering linkages with an electronic control system. The control unit receives signals from the lever position sensor and electronically controls the propulsion devices to achieve the desired steering effect, substituting mechanical precision requirements with electronic control precision which can be achieved through software algorithms and sensor feedback
Data Source
AI summary
A marine vessel propulsion system includes first and second propulsion devices, a first operation lever arranged to be operated by a marine vessel maneuvering operator to control the first propulsion device, a second operation lever arranged to be operated by the marine vessel maneuvering operator to control the second propulsion device, a first lever position sensor arranged to detect a position of the first operation lever, a second lever position sensor arranged to detect a position of the second operation lever, and a control unit. The control unit is programmed to set a target pivoting speed according to the positions of the first and second operation levers relative to each other and set a target travel speed according to amounts of displacement of the first and second operation levers with respect to neutral positions.