Watercraft Remote Control Network Wiring Simplification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional watercraft remote control systems are complex and unreliable, as wires from multiple control stations to the propulsion motor are prone to interference and short circuits, affecting the motor's operation and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A watercraft system where the main and sub control stations communicate through a network, with a cut-off device that detects abnormalities and disconnects affected stations to prevent interference, allowing one remote control to control the propulsion device independently and reducing electronic noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wires are extended and connected from multiple remote controls to the motor driven actuator, then control functionality is achieved, but wiring becomes complicated and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control circuits by having the first remote control device serve as both a control device and a control receiver. The second remote control device only sends signals to the first remote control device, which then transmits them to the motor driven actuator. This consolidation reduces the number of separate wiring paths while maintaining control functionality from multiple stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The first remote control device is designed with multi-functionality, acting as both a control transmitter and a control receiver. This universal design allows it to receive signals from the second remote control device and forward them to the actuator, eliminating the need for dedicated receiving circuits at each station and simplifying the overall wiring structure.
2Ease of operation
If wires are extended and connected from multiple remote controls to the motor driven actuator, then control functionality is achieved, but reliability of the motor decreases due to short circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control system into distinct functional units: the second remote control device for signal generation, the first remote control device for signal reception and transmission, and the motor driven actuator for execution. This segmentation isolates potential fault locations, so that abnormalities in one segment (e.g., the second remote control) cannot directly affect the motor, thereby improving overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The first remote control device serves as an intermediary between the second remote control device and the motor driven actuator. It receives signals from the second remote control and transmits them to the actuator, acting as a buffer that prevents direct electrical connection between all components. This intermediary role reduces the risk of short circuits propagating through the entire system.
3Device complexity
If one remote control is able to control the other remote control, then wiring is simplified, but electronic noise may interfere with control signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the signal processing function from the control signal transmission path. The first remote control device processes and transmits control signals to the motor driven actuator independently, while the second remote control device only generates signals that are received by the first device. This separation minimizes the exposure of control signals to potential electronic noise in the system.
Data Source
AI summary
A watercraft is controllable by either a main station or a substation. A main-side remote control device is disposed in the main station. A sub-side remote control device is disposed in the substation. An outboard motor for generating propulsion force is controlled by the main-side remote control device or the sub-side remote control device. The sub-side remote control device is connected to the main-side remote control device by wiring, and the main-side remote control device is connected to the outboard motor by a network.