Marine Vessel Steering Assist Differential Thrust Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering assist systems for marine vessels with multiple propulsion devices lack efficiency in turning maneuvers, as they do not effectively redistribute thrust to enhance turning moments, particularly at varying speeds and steering angles.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves aligning and adjusting the thrusts of two marine propulsion devices based on steering movements, where the thrust on one side is increased and the other decreased to maintain a constant total thrust while increasing the turning moment, with adjustments made as a function of steering wheel rotation and vessel speed, and optionally utilizing trim tabs to assist in turning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional steering assist systems are used with multiple propulsion devices, then the system structure is simple, but the turning efficiency is insufficient and turning radius is large
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the thrust of each propulsion device based on real-time steering wheel angle and vessel speed. The control method calculates differential thrust values that vary continuously with steering input, transforming the static thrust distribution into a dynamic system that adapts to changing steering conditions, thereby improving turning efficiency without requiring complex mechanical structures
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the thrust parameter of each propulsion device based on steering wheel angle and vessel speed. By calculating optimal thrust distributions that vary with these parameters, the system achieves better turning performance. The thrust magnitude and differential between devices are adjusted as functions of steering input, allowing efficient turning across different operating conditions
2Force
If thrust is increased on one side to improve turning moment, then turning effectiveness improves, but total thrust control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors steering wheel angle and vessel speed, using this feedback to calculate the appropriate thrust distribution. The system adjusts each propulsion device's thrust based on the current steering state, creating a closed-loop control that simultaneously optimizes turning moment and maintains total thrust control. The differential thrust is calculated as a function of steering input while preserving the desired total thrust magnitude
3Ease of operation
If differential thrust is applied to enhance steering, then steering control improves, but energy distribution becomes uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies differential thrust only when steering input is detected, rather than continuously operating all propulsion devices at full capacity. By applying thrust differentials selectively during steering maneuvers and maintaining balanced thrust during straight-line operation, the system improves steering control while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. The differential action is applied partially, only when needed for steering assistance
Data Source
AI summary
A steering assist system provides differential thrusts by two or more marine propulsion devices in order to create a more effective turning moment on a marine vessel. The differential thrusts can be selected as a function of the magnitude of turn commanded by an operator of the marine vessel and, in addition, as a function of the speed of the marine vessel at the time when the turning command is received.