Electric Outboard Controller Layout for Collision Impact Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric outboard machines lack sufficient impact resistance, particularly in the event of collisions, and require inefficient routing of power cables, leading to potential damage and increased machine size.
Innovation Solution
The electric outboard machine design positions the controller between the motor and the attachment, with wider housing and attachment structures to protect the controller from impacts, incorporates a protective gap and stopper mechanism to prevent crushing, and allows the lower unit to rotate independently, reducing cable damage and machine size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the controller is arranged between the motor and the attachment, then impact resistance is improved, but the routing of DC cable becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cable routing channel as an intermediary structure between the motor and controller. This channel guides the DC cable along a predetermined path, simplifying the routing process while maintaining the protective arrangement where the controller is positioned between the motor and attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the outboard machine body into distinct spatial zones: the motor housing, the controller mounting position, and cable routing channels. This segmentation allows the DC cable to be routed through dedicated pathways rather than requiring complex three-dimensional routing, reducing installation complexity while preserving impact resistance.
2Reliability
If the controller is positioned between the motor and attachment for protection, then reliability improves, but the machine size increases due to space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the controller mounting structure with the existing motor housing and attachment framework. The controller is mounted on the motor housing in a position that utilizes existing structural space, eliminating the need for additional protective enclosures or extended machine dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the controller in a lateral dimension adjacent to the motor rather than extending the machine in the longitudinal direction. This dimensional repositioning allows the controller to be protected between the motor and attachment without increasing the overall length or volume of the outboard machine.
3Reliability
If the housing and attachment are made wider to protect the controller laterally, then impact resistance improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the motor housing and attachment structure to serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, accommodate the controller mounting, and simultaneously act as protective elements against lateral impacts. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate protective structures, maintaining simplicity while enhancing protection.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances impact resistance, minimizes cable damage, and downsizes the outboard machine by efficiently routing power cables and protecting the controller from lateral and rear-end collisions.
Implementation Method 1
a DC cable that supplies power from the battery to the controller is routed, and the power is supplied from the controller to the motor
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure improves impact resistance of an electric outboard machine. The electric outboard machine includes an outboard machine body and an attachment. The attachment attaches the outboard machine body to a rear part of a boat. The outboard machine body includes a propeller, an electric motor that drives the propeller, and a controller that controls the motor. The controller is located between the motor and the attachment. If another boat collides with the boat from behind, the controller arranged between the motor and the attachment is easily protected from the impact upon rear-end collision. This can improve impact resistance of the electric outboard machine.