Ship Propulsion Control Mapping for Multi-Power Source Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

In ships with multiple power sources of different maximum outputs, the operability of the operation acceptor is compromised when switching between forward, neutral, and backward movements, as not all operation amounts of the acceptor are effectively reflected in the motor rpm, particularly in navigation with lower output motors.

Innovation Solution

A ship control method that adjusts the output value related to propulsive force and changes the correspondence between operation amounts and output values based on propulsion modes, including synchronization of engine and motor rpm before clutch states change, and controlling torque during transitions between propulsion modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single operation acceptor is used to control multiple power sources with different maximum outputs, then the control structure is simplified, but the operability of the operation acceptor deteriorates because not all operation amounts are effectively reflected in the motor rpm

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol structureVSAvoidoperability of operation acceptor
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the correspondence relation between operation amount and output value changeable according to propulsion modes. The control system dynamically adjusts how the operation acceptor's input is mapped to power source outputs based on which power source is currently active, ensuring optimal responsiveness across different operating conditions while maintaining a single operation acceptor interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If the correspondence relation between operation amount and output value is fixed, then the control system is simpler, but the adaptability to different propulsion modes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol systemVSAvoidadaptability to propulsion modes
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the correspondence relation between operation amount and output value based on the selected propulsion mode. When switching between engine-driven and motor-driven modes, the system adjusts the mapping parameters to match the characteristics of the active power source, thereby achieving adaptability without requiring complex hardware changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Speed

If clutch switching is performed without synchronization, then the switching speed is faster, but the reliability of power transmission deteriorates due to potential damage from speed differences

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching speedVSAvoidpower transmission reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by synchronizing the rotation speeds of the engine and motor before clutch switching occurs. The control system performs speed synchronization in advance of the clutch engagement, ensuring that both power sources are at compatible speeds before the mechanical connection is made, thereby preventing damage while enabling reliable mode transitions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12509205B2Ship control method, ship control program, and ship control system, and ship
Publication Date: 2025.12.30 YANMAR HLDG CO LTD
  • US12509205B2 patent drawing
  • US12509205B2 patent drawing
  • US12509205B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The control method of a ship is used for the ship. The ship is equipped with a plurality of power sources including a first power source and a second power source, and has a plurality of propulsion modes in which a power source used for propulsion of a hull is different between the plurality of power sources. The control method of the ship includes adjusting an output value related to a propulsive force of a hull to a value corresponding to an operation amount of an operation acceptor and changing a correspondence relation between the operation amount and the output value in accordance with a propulsion mode.