Variable Rate Turn Trolling Motor Steering Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trolling motor systems have a constant rate of speed, resulting in poor handling and responsiveness, limiting maneuverability, especially during rapid course adjustments.
Innovation Solution
An electronically controlled trolling motor assembly with a variable rate of turn capability, controlled by a navigation control device that detects user input through sensors and generates a steering input signal to direct a variable speed steering actuator, allowing for desired rates of turn.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional trolling motor systems employ a constant rate of speed, then the system structure remains simple, but the handling and responsiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a constant speed steering actuator to a variable speed steering actuator that can dynamically adjust its rotation speed. The controller receives user input signals and modulates the actuator speed accordingly, enabling rapid course adjustments when needed while maintaining simplicity in the overall system architecture through electronic control.
2Ease of operation
If a constant rate of turn is used, then the steering mechanism remains simple, but maneuverability during rapid course adjustments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the steering actuator to vary its rotation speed based on user input. The variable speed capability allows the system to provide rapid response for maneuverability when needed, while the electronic control system maintains relative simplicity by using standard motor control techniques rather than complex mechanical mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If variable speed steering actuator is implemented, then control precision and responsiveness improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing potential complex mechanical variable speed mechanisms with an electronically controlled variable speed steering actuator. The controller uses electrical signals to precisely regulate the actuator speed, achieving high control precision through electronic modulation rather than mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through the controller that continuously monitors user input from the user input assembly and adjusts the steering actuator speed accordingly. This closed-loop control enables precise maneuverability by constantly adapting the actuator response to current user demands, while the electronic feedback mechanism remains relatively simple compared to mechanical alternatives.
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
Enhances user control and maneuverability by enabling precise and rapid course adjustments, improving handling and responsiveness of watercraft.
Implementation Method 1
The steering actuator may be variable speed and configured to rotate the propulsion motor in response to an electrical signal
Implementation Method 2
The navigation control device may comprise a user input assembly. The user input assembly may be configured to detect user activity related to controlling navigation of the trolling motor assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatuses, and methods associated with a variable rate of turn trolling motor are provided. An example system includes a trolling motor assembly having a propulsion motor and a steering actuator, a navigation control device having a user input assembly and a processor. The processor may be configured to determine a rate of turn based on user activity detected by the user input assembly and generate a steering input signal. The steering input signal may be an electrical signal indicating a rate of turn. The processor may be further configured to direct the steering actuator, via the steering input signal, to rotate the propulsion motor at a desired rate of turn based on the rate of turn indicated in the steering input signal.