Marine Vessel Throttle Actuator Speed Threshold Delay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic shift and throttle systems in marine vessels struggle to delay shift and throttle commands based on engine speed effectively, leading to potential overstressing of the gearbox and risk of engine stalling during rapid throttle changes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that establish predetermined engine speed thresholds to delay shift and throttle commands, where the throttle actuator moves to an idle position if engine speed exceeds a first threshold, and the shift actuator moves to neutral only after the engine speed falls below this threshold, with the throttle command being executed after the shift actuator reaches neutral and engine speed rises above a second threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If shift and throttle commands are executed immediately based on control lever position, then the system responds quickly to operator input, but the gearbox may be overstressed and the engine may stall during rapid throttle changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary checks of engine speed against predetermined thresholds before executing shift and throttle commands. When the engine speed exceeds the first threshold, the system delays the shift command until the speed falls below the threshold, preventing gearbox stress and engine stalling while maintaining responsive operation within safe parameters
2Reliability
If the system delays shift and throttle commands when engine speed exceeds thresholds, then gearbox stress and engine stalling are prevented, but the response time to operator input increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts command execution based on real-time engine speed conditions. Instead of a fixed delay, the system monitors engine speed continuously and executes commands as soon as predetermined thresholds are satisfied, providing adaptive response that balances reliability with minimal unnecessary delay
3Reliability
If the throttle actuator moves to idle position to decrease engine speed, then the engine speed is reduced below the first threshold, but additional time is required for the speed to decrease before shift command can be executed
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the throttle actuator to naturally regulate engine speed back within acceptable thresholds without requiring external intervention. When the engine speed exceeds the first threshold, the throttle is automatically adjusted to idle position, allowing the engine to self-regulate its speed down to the threshold level, ensuring reliable operation while minimizing manual control complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for delaying shift and throttle commands based on engine speed comprises establishing a predetermined threshold engine speed. Shift and throttle commands are calculated based on the position of a control lever which allows an operator to manually control shift and throttle functions. Execution of the shift and throttle commands is delayed if the engine speed is above the predetermined maximum threshold engine speed.