Wireless Controller for Watercraft Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing kayak and small boat propulsion systems are underpowered for storm conditions, have limited battery capacity, and require complex setups with multiple cables and mechanical linkages, leading to jumpy boat motion and tedious operation.
Innovation Solution
A modular electric propulsion system using two trolling motors with automatic connections, a wearable wireless controller with a single analog knob for steering and speed control, and integrated electronics to eliminate cables and mechanical linkages, allowing for easy setup and intuitive navigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple buttons and digital controls are used to activate motor actions, then precise control is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and causes jumpy boat motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces digital button controls with an analog joystick control mechanism. The joystick provides continuous analog signals that smoothly control motor speed and direction, eliminating the jerky motion caused by digital on/off switching while maintaining precise control through positional feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts motor parameters based on joystick position and boat motion sensors. The system continuously modifies thrust magnitude and direction in real-time, providing smooth transitions and adaptive control that responds to changing operational conditions without requiring multiple discrete buttons.
2Reliability
If wired controllers and multiple cables are used to connect battery, controller receiver, and motors, then reliable power and control signals are transmitted, but the setup becomes tedious and requires frequent adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power transmission and control signals into a single integrated wireless communication channel. The controller transmits both throttle and steering commands wirelessly to the boat's receiver, eliminating the need for separate cable connections for power and control signals, thereby simplifying setup while maintaining reliable communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical cable connections with wireless radio frequency communication. The controller and receiver use wireless signals to transmit control commands, eliminating the physical cables that require installation and adjustment, while maintaining reliable signal transmission through error correction and frequency stability.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical linkages and rudders are used for steering, then direct mechanical control is achieved, but the system requires continual adjustment and adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical steering linkages and rudders with electronic control of waterjet thrust vectors. The system uses electronically controlled deflectors that redirect water flow to provide steering force, eliminating mechanical linkages while maintaining intuitive steering control through electronic actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses hydraulic or pneumatic actuation to control the waterjet deflectors. Pressurized fluid moves the deflectors to change thrust direction, providing smooth and responsive steering without mechanical linkages. The fluid pressure system offers precise control and automatic adjustment without requiring manual intervention.
4Power
If a single powerful motor is used to provide ample power for storm conditions, then propulsion power is increased, but the system becomes less reliable and harder to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the propulsion system into multiple independent waterjet pumps instead of using a single large motor. Each pump can operate independently, providing redundancy if one fails. The combined thrust of multiple pumps delivers the necessary power for storm conditions while maintaining system reliability through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters by using multiple smaller pumps operating in parallel rather than one large pump. This allows independent control of each pump's speed and thrust, enabling fine-grained adjustment of total propulsion force while maintaining reliability through distributed operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless controller configured to operate the propulsion system of a vehicle, and in particular a watercraft, using intuitive, analog controls, whereby the controls allow for movement of the vehicle in forward, reverse, left, and right directions, at varying speeds, with the propulsion system in one embodiment having a pair of fixed motors each with a rotating propeller, with all directional and speed variations accomplished by operating each of the propellers in the same or opposite direction as the other propeller, each propeller operating at various speeds or no speed.