Outboard Motor Steering System with Dynamic Motor Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing boat steering systems face inefficiencies due to varying torque requirements based on boat conditions and motor temperature, leading to decreased motor efficiency and increased power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A boat steering device with a steering system that includes multiple motors, a torque detector, and a controller that selects the appropriate motors for steering based on detected torque and motor conditions, optimizing motor usage through data storage and sensor inputs to maintain efficiency across changing conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the amount of torque generated by the steering motor is increased to handle varying steering conditions, then the steering capability is improved, but the efficiency of the steering motor decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the number of steering motors operated based on real-time detection of steering torque and motor conditions. The controller selectively activates one or multiple motors from the plurality of steering motors to match the actual steering demand, transitioning between different operational states rather than maintaining a fixed configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes the operational parameters of the steering system by adjusting the number of active motors based on detected conditions. When steering torque exceeds a predetermined threshold or motor temperature indicates degradation, the system changes from operating a single motor to operating multiple motors in parallel, thereby adapting the system's torque output capability to match actual demands while maintaining efficiency.
2Device complexity
If a single steering motor is used to simplify the system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the system cannot maintain efficiency under varying torque requirements and motor conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multiple steering motors that can function individually or in combination based on operational needs. Each motor serves as a universal steering actuator capable of operating independently or cooperatively, allowing the system to adapt to varying torque requirements and motor condition scenarios without requiring fundamentally different hardware configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller selectively activates or deactivates individual steering motors based on real-time conditions. When one motor becomes overheated or insufficient, the system discards its use temporarily and recovers by activating another motor or switching to multi-motor operation, thereby optimizing efficiency while maintaining steering capability.
3Speed
If the steering motor operates continuously under all conditions, then the steering response is maintained, but power consumption increases and motor efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through detection means that continuously monitor steering torque and motor operating conditions. The controller uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust the number of active motors, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual steering demands and motor states rather than operating in a fixed continuous mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering system transitions from static continuous operation to dynamic conditional operation. The controller adjusts motor activation in real-time based on detected steering torque and motor conditions, allowing the system to maintain rapid steering response when needed while reducing power consumption during low-demand periods or when motor temperature indicates the need for reduced load.
Data Source
AI summary
An outboard motor is provided on a hull and a steering system is connected electrically to the outboard motor and adapted to steer the hull by rotating the outboard motor. Steering motors are provided to the outboard motor. A control unit has a motor selector for choosing which of the steering motors is used to steer the outboard motor. The control unit stores motor characteristic data about the steering motors and correction data based on factors that change characteristics of the steering motors. The motor selector compares a detection signal of a steering torque detector of a boat with the motor characteristic data and the correction data in order to select at least one of the steering motors to be operated.