Outboard Motor Tilt-Trim Controller with Automatic Motion Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tilt-trim systems for outboard motors require continuous operator input to maintain tilt-trim motion, which is inconvenient and can lead to operator fatigue.
Innovation Solution
A tilt-trim system with a controller that automatically controls the tilt-trim device to continue the motion within a set range after initial operation, switching to manual control when the operator stops input, and allowing adjustable motion range settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If continuous operator input is required to maintain tilt-trim motion, then the system remains simple and reliable, but operator convenience deteriorates and operator fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller stores predetermined upper and lower limit positions of the outboard motor in advance. When the operating switch is operated, the controller automatically controls the tilt-trim device to move the motor within these pre-set limits without requiring continuous operator input, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automatic control mode where the controller autonomously manages the tilt-trim motion within predetermined limits after initial operator activation. The controller continuously monitors motor position and automatically adjusts the tilt-trim device, eliminating the need for continuous manual operation and reducing operator fatigue
2Ease of operation
If automatic control mode is implemented with predetermined motion limits, then operator convenience improves and continuous input is not required, but the risk of foreign object entrapment and damage increases without proper limit settings
Solution Approach 1:
The controller pre-stores safe upper and lower limit positions of the outboard motor to prevent harmful effects before they can occur. By automatically controlling the tilt-trim device within these predetermined limits, the system proactively prevents foreign object entrapment and damage while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors the position of the outboard motor during automatic control mode and provides feedback to adjust the tilt-trim device. This real-time feedback mechanism ensures the motor remains within safe operational limits, preventing foreign object entrapment and damage while allowing automatic operation
Data Source
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AI summary
A controller (21) controls a tilt-trim device (25) under an automatic control mode such that the tilt-trim device automatically causes a outboard motor (2) to continuously perform a tilt-trim motion within a motion range set in advance when an operation of an operating switch (23) configured to operate the tilt-trim device has been performed a plurality of times within a predetermined period of time. The controller deactivates the tilt-trim device when the outboard motor reaches either an upper limit or a lower limit of the motion range. The controller changes the motion range in accordance with a setting signal for setting the motion range when receiving the setting signal.