Marine Vessel Steering Control with Speed-Limited Quick Steer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current marine vessel steering systems face challenges in providing responsive steering at low speeds for docking maneuvers while preventing loss of control at high speeds, particularly when the 'quick steer mode' is engaged, as existing solutions either limit user demand excessively or fail to maintain effective control during high-speed operations.
Innovation Solution
A system that automatically limits vessel speed when it exceeds a threshold while in quick steer mode, allowing full authority at low speeds for docking but restricting forward thrust to prevent high-speed operations, while maintaining reverse thrust capability for quick slowing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a reduced steering ratio is used in quick steer mode for responsive low-speed steering, then steering responsiveness at low speeds is improved, but the risk of loss of control at high speeds increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steering ratio is dynamically changed based on operating conditions. The system automatically switches between a normal steering ratio and a reduced steering ratio based on vessel speed and mode selection, allowing optimal steering characteristics for each operating regime without compromising safety
Solution Approach 2:
The steering ratio parameter is varied according to vessel speed and operational mode. At low speeds, a reduced steering ratio provides enhanced responsiveness for docking maneuvers, while at high speeds, the system transitions to a normal steering ratio to maintain stable control characteristics
2Productivity
If full thrust authority is allowed at all speeds, then maneuvering capability is improved, but the danger of excessive speed and loss of control increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different thrust authority levels are applied to different operating conditions. Full thrust authority is permitted during low-speed docking maneuvers where it is needed for precise control, while automatic limitations are imposed at higher speeds to prevent dangerous situations, creating localized optimization for each operational context
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors vessel speed and automatically adjusts thrust authority based on feedback from speed sensors. When the vessel exceeds safe speed thresholds, the system automatically limits forward thrust while maintaining reverse thrust capability, allowing operators to slow down without assistance
3Reliability
If automatic speed limiting is implemented in quick steer mode, then safety at high speeds is improved, but the complexity of the control system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system integrates multiple functions into a unified architecture. The same controller that manages steering ratio adjustments also handles automatic thrust limitations, speed monitoring, and mode transitions, reducing overall system complexity despite the multiple safety functions performed
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a steering system on a marine vessel includes, in response to receiving input to engage a quick steer mode, employing a reduced steering ratio to translate a change in position of a steering wheel to a desired change in steering angle of a marine drive. A vessel speed of the marine vessel is compared to a threshold vessel speed. Upon determining that the vessel speed exceeds the threshold vessel speed, an output limit in a direction of travel of the marine vessel is determined and the marine drive is controlled based on the output limit. A steering actuator associated with the marine drive is controlled based on the reduced steering ratio and the change in position of the steering wheel.