Marine Propulsion Speed Control for Precision Trolling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine vessel propulsion systems lack intuitive and precise control over low-speed propulsion, particularly for trolling during fishing, as internal combustion engines struggle to maintain speeds below idle and electric motors are limited in rotational control at low speeds.
Innovation Solution
A marine propulsion system with a control system that associates lure and fish identifiers with specific speed parameters, allowing users to select and maintain desired vessel speeds or propulsion RPMs through an automatic speed control mode, utilizing a table-based approach and user interface for intuitive input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If internal combustion engines are used for marine propulsion, then power and speed are improved, but control precision at low speeds deteriorates because engines struggle to maintain speeds below idle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical control system of internal combustion engines with an electric motor propulsion system. The electric motor receives electrical signals from a controller that precisely regulates rotational speed based on user input, enabling accurate low-speed control while maintaining the ability to provide sufficient propulsion power when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the control parameter from engine throttle position (which has limited resolution at low speeds) to direct electric motor rotational speed control. The controller adjusts the electrical parameters supplied to the motor to achieve precise speed regulation across the entire operating range, including speeds below traditional engine idle limits.
2Speed
If electric motors are used for marine propulsion, then low-speed control is improved, but rotational control capability at low speeds deteriorates due to motor limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary between the user interface and the electric motor. The controller processes user input through a table-based lookup system that maps user selections to precise motor control parameters, translating simple user actions into accurate rotational speed control without requiring the user to understand motor control complexities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-populates a table with optimal speed parameters corresponding to different user selections (e.g., trolling speeds, fishing conditions). When the user makes a selection, the controller rapidly retrieves the pre-calculated optimal parameters from the table, eliminating the need for real-time complex calculations and enabling immediate precise speed adjustment.
3Device complexity
If manual speed control is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to lack of intuitive control for fishing applications
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically determining optimal propulsion parameters based on user selections. The controller autonomously retrieves appropriate speed settings from the pre-populated table and adjusts motor output accordingly, eliminating the need for manual throttle adjustments and providing intuitive control through simple user inputs like lure type or fishing condition selections.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of a method of controlling low-speed propulsion of a marine vessel includes receiving user input to engage an automatic speed control mode and then, when the automatic speed control mode is engaged, receiving the user input indicating at least one of a selected lure identifier and a selected fish identifier. A desired speed parameter is then determined based on the selected lure identifier and/or the selected fish identifier. The propulsion device is then controlled to automatically maintain the desired speed parameter.