Marine Shift Protection Sequencing for Engine and Clutch Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shift protection algorithms for marine vessels either rely on simple, inefficient time-based logic or complex, costly operating-variable-based logic, lacking a modular solution that can seamlessly integrate both approaches and be configured according to specific needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular shift protection algorithm that enables the combination of time-based and operating-variable-based Shift Protection Sequences (SPS) within the same system, allowing for incremental and piecewise configuration of various SPS to suit different operational requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If time-based Shift Protection Sequence is used, then implementation is simple, but protection efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The shift protection system is segmented into multiple independent SPS modules (first SPS, second SPS, third SPS) that can be selectively enabled or disabled. Each module implements a different protection strategy (time-based, operating-variable-based, or hybrid), allowing the system to combine simple and complex approaches in a modular fashion without requiring complete redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects and switches between different SPS modules based on operational conditions and configuration settings. The controller can enable or disable specific SPS modules in real-time, transitioning from simple time-based protection to more sophisticated operating-variable-based protection as needed, optimizing both simplicity and efficiency adaptively.
2Reliability
If operating-variable-based Shift Protection Sequence is used, then protection efficiency is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex operating-variable-based protection logic is segmented into a separate SPS module that can be independently configured and enabled only when needed. This allows the base system to remain simple while providing the option to add sophisticated protection where required, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high protection efficiency when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed with universal capability to execute multiple types of SPS modules (time-based, operating-variable-based, and hybrid). A single controller structure handles both simple and complex protection strategies, eliminating the need for separate hardware systems and reducing overall device complexity while providing access to advanced protection features.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple SPS of varying complexity are integrated, then flexibility and configurability are improved, but implementation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each SPS module is implemented as a discrete, self-contained unit with its own logic and parameters. The first SPS handles time-based protection, the second handles operating-variable-based protection, and the third provides hybrid functionality. This segmentation allows each module to be developed, tested, and configured independently, reducing implementation complexity while maintaining high configurability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a hierarchical approach where a basic time-based SPS is always available (partial action), and additional operating-variable-based SPS modules can be added incrementally (excessive action) depending on specific application requirements. This allows customers to start with simple implementation and add complexity only to the extent needed, optimizing the balance between configurability and implementation burden.
Data Source
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AI summary
A first method (300) of protecting an engine (11) and a transmission (12) of a marine vessel during gear shifts and a second method (200) of programming one or more Shift Protection Sequences (SPS) are disclosed. The first method (300) includes receiving a Shift Request (SR) (301) and activating a SPS from among a plurality of enabled SPS (302). The second method (200) includes configuring a Shift Protection Type (SPT) (201); enabling and configuring a plurality of required and SPS variables (202); and, optionally, enabling and configuring a plurality of optional SPS variables (203-207). The SPT may be a Basic Shift Protection (BSP), which includes time-based SPS; or the SPT may be an Advanced Shift Protection (ASP), which includes alternate time-based and operating-variable based SPS. The SPS of the ASP may be incrementally programmed and added to the BSP.