Integrated Marine Propulsion-Rudder Control for Low-Speed Yaw
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional marine vessel propulsion systems face challenges in producing sufficient steering or yawing forces at slow speeds, particularly when one or both propellers are operating in reverse, due to reduced water flow past the rudder, and require skilled operation to manage simultaneous control of propulsion systems and rudders.
Innovation Solution
An integrated control system that processes steering and thrust commands to differentially control propulsion systems and rudders, automatically adjusting propulsion system thrust and rudder angles to achieve desired vessel movement, reducing the need for manual control inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional propulsion systems are used with separate control for propulsion and steering, then the system structure is simple, but sufficient steering forces cannot be produced at slow speeds when propellers operate in reverse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines propulsion control and steering control into a single integrated control system. The processor receives both thrust commands and steering commands, then coordinates control of the propellers and rudders together, allowing the system to produce sufficient steering forces at slow speeds while automatically managing the complex coordination that would otherwise require skilled manual operation
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated control system dynamically adjusts operating parameters including propeller thrust magnitude, rudder deflection angles, and the coordination between them based on vessel speed and steering requirements. This allows optimization of steering force production across different operating conditions, particularly at slow speeds where traditional separate control fails
2Ease of operation
If integrated control system is implemented to coordinate propulsion and steering, then vessel maneuverability at slow speeds is enhanced, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated control system performs multiple functions through a single processor: it manages thrust commands for both propellers, steering commands for both rudders, coordinates their interaction, and adapts to different operating conditions. This multi-functionality enhances maneuverability while consolidating control logic into one central unit rather than requiring separate complex control systems
3Reliability
If skilled operation is required to manage simultaneous control of propulsion systems and rudders, then precise vessel control can be achieved, but operator skill requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated control system performs the complex coordination of propulsion and steering controls automatically through its processor, which receives thrust and steering commands and independently manages the coordination between propellers and rudders. This self-service capability maintains precise vessel control while eliminating the need for operators to possess specialized skills in managing the complex interactions between multiple propulsion and steering components
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments relate to a control system for a marine vessel having a first propulsion system and a second propulsion system, the control system comprising: a processor configured to: receive a steering command and a thrust command; and control at least the first propulsion system and the second propulsion system based on the steering command and the thrust command.