Side-Mount Engine Control Lever Layout for Compact Low-Force Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Side-mount type engine control apparatuses face challenges in operability and compactness due to the need for mechanical transmission cables, which require significant force to operate and result in a bulky housing structure, making them unsuitable for small boats with high-power engines.
Innovation Solution
A slim and compact side-mount type engine control apparatus with a housing featuring a rotatable axis unit, drive and driven gears, an angle sensor, and a friction mechanism, allowing for reduced operational force and improved operability, and the ability to be mounted on either side of the hull.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical transmission cables are used for throttle and shift operations, then the control apparatus can operate the engine, but the housing becomes bulky and operational force requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical transmission cables with an electrical system consisting of a control lever, potentiometers for detecting lever position, and electronic control signals. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky mechanical cable routing and reduces the force required to operate the control apparatus, as electrical signals require minimal actuation force compared to mechanical cable tension.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter from mechanical force transmission through cables to electrical signal transmission. By using potentiometers to convert mechanical position into electrical signals, the system maintains full control capability while dramatically reducing the physical force requirements and housing space needed for cable management.
2Strength
If a flange is added to the housing for fixing, then the housing can be securely mounted, but the housing shape is restricted and contour is enlarged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mounting function from the housing structure by using separate mounting brackets that attach to the housing. This segmentation allows the housing to maintain its compact, unrestricted shape while the brackets provide the necessary mounting strength and flexibility for various installation positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces mounting brackets as intermediary elements between the housing and the mounting surface. These brackets serve as mediators that provide secure mounting capability without requiring the housing itself to have enlarged contours or restricted shapes, thus preserving design freedom while achieving mounting strength.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus enables efficient throttle and shift operations with reduced force requirements, maintaining good operability and compactness, allowing for installation on smaller boats without compromising performance.
Implementation Method 1
a friction mechanism which applies friction to the axis unit (70)
Data Source
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AI summary
An engine control apparatus (10) includes an apparatus body (20), and a control lever (40). The apparatus body (20) includes a housing (25), an axis unit (70) including a drive gear (71), a driven gear (72), and an angle sensor (110). A plurality of fixing portions (31) are provided on the housing (25). A through-hole (32) is formed in the fixing portion (31). The through-hole (32) is communicated with a first side wall (25a) and a second side wall (25b) of the housing (25). The housing (25) is fixed to a port-side mounting surface (19a) or a starboard-side mounting surface (19b) by a screw member (33) inserted into the through-hole (32). When the control lever (40) is operated, the drive gear (71) and the driven gear (72) are rotated in accordance with an angle of operation. A rotational angle of the driven gear (72) is detected by an angle sensor (110).