Marine Vessel Wave Detection and Automatic Stability Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine vessel control systems fail to effectively detect and respond to waves and other objects in the vessel's surroundings, leading to potential instability and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A system equipped with image sensors and a control system that analyzes imaging data to identify waves and objects, providing visual displays on the windshield to assist the operator and automatically adjusts the vessel's operation to manage wave effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional marine vessel control systems are used, then the system complexity is low, but the ability to detect and respond to waves and objects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical wave sensing systems with image sensors (cameras) and computational algorithms. The image sensors capture visual data of waves and objects, while image processing algorithms analyze the captured images to detect wave characteristics and object positions, substituting mechanical detection with optical and computational methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image processing system as an intermediary between the image sensors and the vessel control system. This intermediary processes the raw image data to extract meaningful information about waves and objects, then transmits this processed information to the control system for appropriate responses.
2Stability of the object's composition
If real-time wave detection and automatic control adjustments are implemented, then vessel stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where image sensors continuously monitor wave conditions and object positions, the control system processes this information to determine appropriate corrective actions, and the marine propulsion devices execute these actions to maintain vessel stability. The system continuously adjusts based on real-time feedback from the environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a multi-functional control system that handles multiple tasks simultaneously: detecting waves, identifying objects, calculating vessel orientation, determining propulsion commands, and monitoring system status. This universal control architecture consolidates multiple functions into a single integrated system rather than requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.
3Reliability
If image sensors and automatic control systems are added, then the ability to navigate safely and respond to environmental conditions is enhanced, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic sampling of the environment through image sensors rather than continuous monitoring. The system captures images at regular intervals, processes these frames to detect changes in wave conditions and object positions, and updates control commands accordingly. This periodic approach reduces energy consumption compared to continuous real-time processing while maintaining adequate navigation safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for assisting a user operating a marine vessel, the marine vessel having an image sensor configured to collect imaging data for an area outside the marine vessel. The method includes collecting imaging data via the image sensor for the area outside the marine vessel and analyzing the imaging data to identify a wave within the area outside the marine vessel. The method further includes determining a size of the wave and/or a location of the wave relative to the marine vessel and determining whether the size and/or the location of the wave is beyond one or more thresholds. The method further includes automatically modifying an operation of the marine vessel when the size and/or location of the wave is beyond the one or more thresholds to thereby assist the user in managing an effect of the wave on the marine vessel.