Centralized Watercraft Control via Touch Panel Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of network systems in watercraft increases with the number of devices, leading to difficulties in operability due to increased wiring and the number of controllers, making it challenging for operators to manage and install devices effectively.
Innovation Solution
A centralized control system with a central controller and a touch panel display device that communicates with the central controller to provide a graphical user interface, allowing for easier management and operation of devices, reducing the need for multiple controllers and simplifying the installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple controllers and devices are added to support various watercraft functions, then the functionality and versatility of the watercraft are improved, but the network system complexity and wiring complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple controllers (engine controller, steering controller, remote control controller) into a single network system centered around a display device that serves as a communication hub. This merging approach reduces wiring complexity by consolidating communication paths while maintaining all required functionalities through centralized control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as an information display interface, a communication hub for the network system, and a control interface for various watercraft devices. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated controllers for each function, thereby simplifying the overall network system.
2Measurement precision
If multiple operating switches and instrument panels are provided for each device, then the control precision and monitoring capability are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to information overload
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple instrument panels and operating switches into a single display device that presents all information and controls in a unified interface. This merging eliminates information overload by centralizing the display of engine parameters, steering status, and control functions in one location, improving ease of operation while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device utilizes a graphical user interface that organizes information in a two-dimensional visual space, allowing multiple parameters and controls to be displayed simultaneously without physical clutter. This dimensional transformation from physical switches to visual interface improves operability by enabling easy access to all functions through a single panel.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more devices and controllers are installed, then the functionality is improved, but the space required for installation and arrangement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple control functions and communication interfaces into the display device, which serves as a centralized hub for the network system. This consolidation reduces the physical space required for installation by eliminating the need for separate control panels and wiring harnesses for each device, while maintaining full functionality through software-based control.
4Ease of operation
If a centralized control system with display device is implemented, then the ease of operation is improved through centralized information display, but the device complexity increases due to integration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The display device is designed as a universal interface that can communicate with and control multiple different types of devices (engine, steering, remote control) through a standardized network protocol. This multi-functionality improves ease of operation by providing a single point of access for all controls while the standardized communication protocol manages the integration complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A watercraft includes a plurality of devices, a central controller, and a display device. The central controller is programmed to execute centralized control of the devices. The display device includes a touch panel function. The display device is configured to communicate with the central controller, and to display information regarding watercraft in a Graphical User Interface (GUI) format.