Outboard Motor Steering Angle Sensor Layout Outside the Oil Chamber
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The complex layout of wiring for angle detection sensors in outboard motors due to their placement within the oil chamber complicates the configuration of the motor.
Innovation Solution
The angle detection sensor is positioned outside the oil chamber, allowing for simplified wiring and configuration by arranging it in the air or within a waterproof case, and using a rotating member to indirectly detect the steering shaft's rotation angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the angle detection sensor is arranged inside the oil chamber, then the sensor can detect the rotation angle of the steering shaft, but the wiring layout becomes complex and the configuration of the outboard motor is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The angle detection sensor is extracted from the oil chamber and arranged in the air above the oil chamber. This separation removes the sensor from the complex wiring environment inside the oil chamber, simplifying the wiring layout while maintaining the detection function through the rotation member that transmits rotational information from the steering shaft to the sensor.
2Device complexity
If the angle detection sensor is arranged outside the oil chamber in the air, then the wiring layout is simplified, but the sensor needs to be protected from water ingress
Solution Approach 1:
A waterproof case is introduced as an intermediary structure that houses the angle detection sensor. This waterproof case protects the sensor from water ingress while allowing the sensor to remain positioned in the air above the oil chamber, thus maintaining simplified wiring layout without compromising sensor protection.
3Device complexity
If the angle detection sensor is arranged between the drive source and the oil chamber, then the wiring is simplified, but the sensor must be positioned in a limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The angle detection sensor is positioned in the vertical dimension above the oil chamber rather than being constrained within the horizontal space between the drive source and oil chamber. This dimensional transition allows the sensor to be arranged in the air where there is more available space, while still maintaining simplified wiring through the rotation member connection.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
To simplify the configuration, an outboard motor includes a drive source, a drive shaft, a steering shaft, a case, and an angle detection sensor. The drive shaft extends in an upper-lower direction and rotates by the driving force of the drive source. The hollow tubular steering shaft is arranged to surround the outer circumference of the drive shaft. The case is arranged at a position lower than the drive source, and an oil chamber is formed in which oil is stored, and at least part of the steering shaft is housed in the oil chamber. The angle detection sensor is arranged at a position higher than the oil chamber and detects the rotation angle of the steering shaft.