Ship Steering Control with Intermittent Throttle for Tight Turns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ship control systems face challenges in maneuvering at low speeds due to limited thrust generation in the lateral direction and slower response times, especially when using hydraulically driven systems, leading to larger turning radii and reduced maneuverability.
Innovation Solution
A ship control device with a user input interface and control unit that generates intermittent thrust control signals, adjusting throttle and rudder angles to minimize turning radius and improve maneuverability, using a joystick for intuitive operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a hydraulically driven steering machine is used, then the ship can be controlled with conventional systems, but the response speed of the coxswain movement is slower and the turning radius becomes larger than intended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing intermittent control where the throttle command signal alternates between Hi and Low levels at predetermined intervals. This periodic throttle adjustment creates oscillating thrust that compensates for the slow hydraulic response, enabling the ship to achieve the intended turning radius despite the delayed coxswain movement response.
2Device complexity
If only the main engine is provided without side thrusters, then the system configuration is simpler, but thrust generation in the lateral direction and in-place turning capability are not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the main engine to perform functions traditionally requiring side thrusters. Through intermittent throttle control and coordinated rudder adjustment, the system dynamically generates lateral thrust components and achieves in-place turning capability, allowing a single main engine to replace multiple thrust-generating devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by making the main engine perform multiple functions: forward propulsion, lateral thrust generation, and in-place turning. The intermittent control mechanism enables the main engine to substitute for side thrusters and auxiliary propulsion systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatile maneuvering capability.
3Speed
If intermittent control is activated, then the turning radius is reduced and maneuverability is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing a control unit that automatically generates intermittent throttle command signals based on predetermined control parameters. The system self-regulates the throttle between Hi and Low levels without requiring complex external control mechanisms, achieving reduced turning radius through automated periodic adjustment rather than operator intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
To more reliably achieve the turn intended by the operator without making major system changes. The ship control device is provided with an input unit for inputting a maneuvering command value related to the operation control of the ship and a control unit for generating and outputting a steering angle command signal and a throttle command signal to the ship based on the maneuvering command value. If the maneuvering command value is in the intermittent control range, the control unit outputs a throttle command signal with an intermittent control waveform having a Hi level and a Low level.