Automatic Trim Control for Marine Vessels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine vessel propulsion systems require manual operator intervention to adjust trim angles as a function of speed, which can be inefficient and may not optimize vessel performance under varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
An automated method that measures the vessel's speed and adjusts the trim angle of the marine propulsion device based on predefined speed magnitudes, with options for linear or discreet step changes, and considers water depth to optimize trim angle settings without operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operator intervention is used to adjust trim angles, then the system is simpler, but operational efficiency deteriorates and performance optimization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically adjusts trim angles based on measured vessel speed without requiring operator intervention. The control system self-regulates by comparing speed to predefined magnitudes and actuating the trim mechanism accordingly, eliminating manual operation while maintaining simplicity through automated decision-making logic
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated control system that uses sensors to measure speed and electronic controls to actuate the trim mechanism. This substitution of manual mechanical operation with automated sensing and control improves operational efficiency while keeping the overall system relatively simple
2Productivity
If trim angles are adjusted frequently to optimize performance, then vessel performance improves, but hydraulic component duty cycles increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system adjusts trim angles only when speed changes cross predefined magnitude thresholds, rather than continuously adjusting with every speed fluctuation. This partial action approach maintains performance optimization while reducing the frequency of hydraulic actuator activation and extending component life
Solution Approach 2:
The speed range is segmented into distinct zones defined by predefined speed magnitudes, with trim angle adjustments occurring only at threshold transitions. This segmentation prevents excessive adjustment frequency by establishing discrete control points rather than continuous adjustment, reducing hydraulic duty cycles while maintaining performance
3Productivity
If automated speed-based control is implemented, then operational efficiency improves, but the risk of improper trim angles causing porpoising increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously measures vessel speed and uses this feedback to determine appropriate trim angle adjustments. By basing control decisions on actual measured speed rather than predetermined settings, the system adapts to changing conditions while maintaining stability through consistent speed-trim angle relationships that prevent porpoising
Solution Approach 2:
The control system changes the trim angle parameter in response to changes in speed parameter, following predefined relationships between speed magnitudes and appropriate trim angles. This parameter coupling ensures that trim angles remain appropriate for current operating conditions, preventing instability and porpoising while maintaining operational efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic trim control system changes the trim angle of a marine propulsion device as a function of the speed of the marine vessel relative to the water in which it is operated. The changing of the trim angle occurs between first and second speed magnitudes which operate as minimum and maximum speed thresholds.