Vessel Steering System with Integrated Electric Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering systems for vessels face challenges in adding automatic steering functionality to both mechanical and electrical steering mechanisms without significant modifications, leading to space constraints and complexity in small-scale vessels.
Innovation Solution
A steering system that includes an electric actuator, a transmitting mechanism, and a power supply controller, allowing the steering wheel to rotate automatically without operator input, with the electric actuator and transmitting mechanism positioned to minimize space usage and simplify the structure, and a cover to protect them from environmental elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a retrofit automatic steering device is installed on a mechanical steering mechanism, then automatic steering functionality is added, but on-board space available to vessel occupants decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the automatic steering mechanism with the existing steering wheel assembly. The electric actuator is integrated into the steering column, and the transmitting mechanism uses the existing steering wheel structure, thereby adding automatic steering functionality without requiring separate dedicated space for the autopilot system.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering wheel serves dual functions: manual steering operation and automatic steering actuation. The electric actuator can be activated to rotate the steering wheel for automatic steering, while the wheel itself remains the primary interface for manual control, making the system multi-functional without requiring additional separate components.
2Extent of automation
If a retrofit automatic steering device is installed on a mechanical steering mechanism, then automatic steering functionality is added, but the structure becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transmitting mechanism as an intermediary component that connects the electric actuator to the steering wheel. This intermediary mechanism, which includes a driving member and driven member, enables the electric actuator to control the steering wheel rotation without requiring direct integration, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining automatic steering functionality.
3Extent of automation
If an electrical steering mechanism is used instead of mechanical, then automatic steering can be achieved with simpler addition of control system, but existing mechanical steering mechanism cannot be utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical hydraulic steering mechanism with an electric actuation system. The electric actuator generates rotational force to turn the steering wheel, eliminating the need for hydraulic pumps, cylinders, and piping while maintaining the mechanical steering function through the transmitting mechanism.
4Ease of operation
If both mechanical and electrical steering mechanisms are provided, then steering feeling is improved and automatic steering is enabled, but the structure becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic switching capability that allows the system to operate in different modes: manual steering mode for maintaining steering feeling and automatic steering mode for hands-free operation. The power supply controller dynamically activates the electric actuator only when automatic steering is required, while the mechanical steering mechanism remains available for manual operation, providing operational flexibility without requiring both systems to be active simultaneously.
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
Enables the addition of automatic steering functionality with minimal modification to existing systems, reducing onboard space requirements and maintaining vessel operator control, while ensuring the system's reliability and protection from seawater and rain.
Implementation Method 1
an electric actuator that generates power to rotate a steering wheel
Implementation Method 2
a transmitting mechanism including a driving member that rotates together with an output portion of the electric actuator and a driven member that rotates together with the steering wheel
Data Source
AI summary
A steering system for a vessel includes an electric actuator that generates power to rotate a steering wheel, a transmitting mechanism that transmits a rotation of the electric actuator to the steering wheel, and a power supply controller that supplies electric power to the electric actuator according to an input signal that is not based on a rotation of the steering wheel.