Torque Clutch Steering Mechanism for Trolling Motor Impact Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering control systems for trolling motors are prone to damage and failure due to unplanned impact loads from external forces, such as wind, waves, and propeller interactions with obstructions, leading to immediate or latent defects.
Innovation Solution
A steering control system featuring a torque clutch mechanism that automatically decouples the steering motor from the steering shaft when high external loads are applied, using mechanisms like ball and spring or slip tooth systems to manage torque thresholds, thereby preventing damage and allowing recoupling when loads return within safe limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the steering motor is energized to rotate the steering shaft, then the steering control system can actively counteract external forces and maintain position, but the system becomes vulnerable to damage from impact loads and high torque conditions
Solution Approach 1:
A clutch mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the steering motor and the steering shaft. This clutch acts as a protective mediator that disengages the motor from the shaft when impact loads exceed a predetermined threshold, preventing damage to the motor and transmission system while allowing the shaft to continue rotating under external forces
2Reliability
If the steering motor continuously drives the steering shaft to counteract external forces, then the boat can maintain its target position, but the motor and transmission system are exposed to cumulative damage from repeated high-load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by being pre-configured with a predetermined torque threshold. When impact loads approach dangerous levels, the clutch proactively disengages to cushion the motor and transmission system from damage, allowing the system to withstand repeated high-load conditions without cumulative damage
3Reliability
If a clutch mechanism is added to protect against impact loads, then the steering control system becomes more reliable under high-load conditions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism is designed as a self-service component that automatically senses when impact loads exceed the predetermined threshold and autonomously disengages the motor from the shaft. This self-acting mechanism eliminates the need for external sensors, control electronics, or manual intervention, thereby minimizing the increase in system complexity while maintaining high reliability
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 system effectively reduces the risk of damage to the steering control system by decoupling the motor and shaft during high loads, allowing for automatic recoupling when loads decrease, thus enhancing durability and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a spring mechanism including a spring and a ball positioned to engage with a detent on the steering shaft such that when the steering shaft is rotated by the steering motor, the spring mechanism engages the ball with the detent to couple the steering motor to the steering shaft
Implementation Method 2
when the steering shaft is subjected to an external torque exceeding a predetermined threshold magnitude... the torque and inertia of the trolling motor can cause the load on the steering control system to damage the gear train and/or steering motor
Data Source
AI summary
This application describes clutch mechanisms for use in a steering control system, e.g., a steering control system used to steer a trolling motor for a boat. Such clutch mechanisms can reduce and avoid damage to the steering control system (e.g., a steering motor) when the system is subjected to unusually large impact loads (e.g., when the trolling motor or boat contacts an obstruction). The clutches described in this application can be used to decouple the steering control system from a steering shaft (or other drive mechanism) upon application of a large impact load, thus reducing damage to and increasing the lifespan of such system. In some cases, the clutch is a ball and spring mechanism. In other cases, the clutch is a slip tooth mechanism.