Information
-
Patent Grant
-
6758703
-
Patent Number
6,758,703
-
Date Filed
Wednesday, September 11, 200222 years ago
-
Date Issued
Tuesday, July 6, 200420 years ago
-
Inventors
-
Original Assignees
-
Examiners
Agents
- Birch, Stewart, Kolasch & Birch, LLP
-
CPC
-
US Classifications
Field of Search
US
- 440 1
- 440 2
- 440 84
- 440 85
- 440 86
- 440 87
-
International Classifications
-
Abstract
In a small boat equipped with a display panel (liquid crystal device) displaying operation information and a change-over switch (set switch) capable of switching from a normal operation in which output of an engine is not limited to a limited operation in which the output of the engine is limited low, the display panel has a display lamp (limit mode display mark) for lighting when switched to the limited operation. Since there is provided a display lamp for lighting when switched to the limited operation for a small boat capable of switching from a normal operation in which output of an engine is not limited to a limited operation in which the output of the engine is limited low, the convenience can be afforded to the operator.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 on Application No. 2001-283685, filed in Japan on Sep. 18, 2001, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a display device for a small boat equipped with a change-over switch capable of switching from a normal operation to a limited operation. In the normal operation, the output of the engine is not limited, while in the limited operation, the output of the engine is limited to a low output.
DESCRIPTION OF BACKGROUND ART
A display device for a small boat is known, for example, from Japanese Published Unexamined Application No. 9-169298 entitled “STARTING SYSTEM FOR SMALL SHIP”.
According to
FIGS. 2 and 3
of the above document, a gauge panel
6
is provided with control means E. The gauge panel
6
is provided with a meter
61
such as a speedometer and a tachometer. A stop watch and a display unit
620
are provided for displaying navigation time and the like. A power source is connected to the gauge panel
6
through an ON/OFF switch
66
and to a starter motor
68
through a relay
67
. By inputting a secret number, the starter motor
68
is caused to rotate. Operating means
62
is provided for the gauge panel
6
for starting an engine
5
. A mode change-over button
610
is provided on the gauge panel
6
for switching the display unit
620
.
The gauge panel
6
(hereinafter, referred to as “display/operation panel”), which acts as the starting system for the above-described small ship, becomes large. Specifically, when, for example, the display/operation panel is provided with a display of a multitude of information or many operation buttons, an area of the display/operation panel becomes large. Therefore, the display device becomes out of scale for the small boat. Thus, it may be desired to make the display function and operation function multifunctional.
When, for example, such a small boat has a limited operation function in which the output of the engine is limited to a low output from a normal operation in which the output of the engine is not limited, a means for notifying that the small boat is under the limited operation is necessary. Accordingly, an appropriate display, which is easy for the operator to recognize is desirable.
Thus, when a small boat is caused to have a limited operation function, it is an object of the present invention to provide a display device for a small boat provided with a display, which is easy for the operator to recognize and a switching function to the limited operation function.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In order to achieve the above-described object, according to a first aspect of the present invention, a display panel for a small boat is provided to display operation information. The small boat includes a change-over switch, which is capable of switching from a normal operation to a limited operation. In the normal operation, the output of the engine is not limited, while in the limited operation, the output of the engine is limited to a low output. The display panel has a display lamp, which lights when the change-over switch is switched to the limited operation.
For example, it is assumed that when a small boat, which is capable of switching from a normal operation to a limited operation, is operated in the limited operation, a throttle is opened in order to increase the speed of the small boat. At this time, when the operator is not aware that the small boat is under the limited operation, the operator may believe that the small boat is not working properly. Thus, a display lamp is provided for displaying that the engine has been switched from the normal operation to the limited operation. Accordingly, the operator can be notified that the engine has been switched to the limited operation, whereby convenience is afforded to the operator.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, a display device for a small boat is provided, wherein the display lamp is caused to blink during the limited operation.
The display lamp is caused to blink during the limited operation. Accordingly, the operator is strongly given the impression that the transportation means is in the limited operation.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, a display device for a small boat is provided, wherein the change-over switch serves the dual function of a functional change-over switch for the display panel.
The change-over switch serves the dual function of a functional change-over switch for the display panel. Accordingly, the operation function is made multifunctional. Therefore, the display device can be miniaturized.
Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given hereinbelow and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the present invention, and wherein:
FIG. 1
is a side view showing a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 2
is a plan view showing a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 3
is a plan view showing a steering mechanism of a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 4
is a block diagram showing an OTS control device of a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 5
is a view in the direction of the arrow
5
in
FIG. 1
;
FIG. 6
is a plan cross-sectional view showing a display device for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 7
is a block diagram showing a power source system for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 8
is a side view showing a main switch with a lanyard switch for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 9
is an operation view showing a main switch with a lanyard switch for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 10
is an operation explanatory view for a power source system for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 11
is a flow chart for setting a limited operation for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 12
is a flow chart for showing a procedure of fault diagnosis for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 13
is a flow chart for showing a procedure for locking/unlocking a theft prevention function for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 14
is a flow chart for showing the procedures for new ID registration/ID forced release of the theft prevention function for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted;
FIG. 15
is a flow chart for showing a procedure for changing the registered ID number of the theft prevention function for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted; and
FIG. 16
is a view showing a control system of a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings should be viewed in accordance with the orientation of the reference numerals.
FIG. 1
is a side view showing a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. A jet propulsion boat
10
is an example of a small boat according to the present invention. The jet propulsion boat
10
includes a fuel tank
14
mounted to a front part
11
a
of a boat hull
11
. An engine
15
is provided behind the fuel tank
14
. A pump chamber
16
provided behind the engine
15
. A jet propeller
17
is provided in the pump chamber
16
. An exhaust unit
18
includes a suction side mounted to the engine
15
, and an exhaust side mounted to the pump chamber
16
. A steering handle
28
is mounted above the fuel tank
14
; and a seat
29
mounted behind this steering
28
.
The jet propeller
17
has a housing
21
extending backward from an opening
13
in a hull bottom
12
, and is constructed such that an impeller
22
is rotatably mounted within the housing
21
. The impeller
22
is coupled to a driving shaft
23
of the engine
15
.
In the jet propeller
17
, the engine
15
is driven to rotate the impeller
22
, whereby water sucked through the opening
13
in the hull bottom
12
can be injected backward of the boat hull
11
through a steering pipe
25
, which acts as a nozzle opening at a rear end of the housing
21
.
The steering pipe
25
is a member mounted to the rear end of the housing
21
so as to be able to freely swing in the lateral direction. The steering pipe
25
acts as a nozzle for steering which controls the steering direction of the boat hull
11
by swinging in the lateral direction through operation of the steering handle
28
.
In the jet propulsion boat
10
, fuel is supplied to the engine
15
from the fuel tank
14
to drive the engine
15
. A driving force of the engine
15
is transmitted to the impeller
22
through the driving shaft
23
to rotate the impeller
22
, whereby water is sucked from the opening
13
in the hull bottom
12
and the water thus sucked can be injected through the steering pipe
25
through the rear end of the housing
21
for propelling.
Also, as will be described below, the jet propulsion boat
10
is a boat hull equipped with a control unit in order to precisely control an amount of the jet water stream or a duration during which the jet water stream can be injected. Furthermore, the jet propulsion boat
10
is also a boat hull capable of being switched into a limited operation mode in which the engine output can be controlled so as not to exceed a predetermined output.
In
FIG. 1
, reference numeral
26
designates a reverse bucket, which when reversing the boat hull, is moved over the steering pipe
25
to flow the jet water stream forward obliquely downward. Reference numeral
33
is an operating knob for operating the reverse bucket
26
. Reference numeral
34
is an exhaust pipe. Reference numeral
35
is an exhaust body. Reference numeral
27
is a battery which is a power source for the boat hull
11
. Reference numeral
36
is a water muffler. Reference numeral
37
is a water lock pipe. Reference numeral
38
is a tail pipe. Reference numeral
39
is a resonator. Reference numeral
45
is a main switch with a lanyard switch.
FIG. 2
is a plan view showing a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. The steering handle
28
includes a steering shaft
41
rotatably mounted on the boat hull. A steering wheel bar
43
is mounted to a top end of the steering shaft
41
. Right and left steering wheel grips
44
L,
44
R are mounted onto the left and right end portions of the steering wheel bar
43
. A main switch
45
with a lanyard switch is provided at the base of the left steering wheel grip
44
L. A throttle lever
46
is mounted on the base of the right steering wheel grip
44
R in such a manner as to be able to freely swing. A throttle cable
47
extends to the throttle from the throttle lever
46
. A steering detection mechanism
48
is provided at the lower end of the steering shaft
41
.
FIG. 3
is a plan view showing a steering mechanism for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. The steering detection mechanism
48
includes a bracket
51
mounted on the boat hull
11
(See FIG.
1
). A switch cam
52
is mounted to the lower end of the steering shaft
41
. A steering switch
53
is provided for turning ON/OFF through the use of the switch cam
52
. A cam plate
54
is mounted to the lower end of the steering shaft
41
. In this respect, reference numeral
55
designates a driving link for driving the steering pipe
25
(See
FIG. 1
) by being rotatably mounted to the end portion of the cam plate
54
. Reference numeral
53
a
is a switch lever for the steering switch
53
, and reference numeral
53
b
is a body portion of the steering switch
53
.
FIG. 4
is a block diagram showing an OTS control device for a small boat to which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. In this case, OTS is the abbreviated name for an off Throttle Steering System. The OTS is a device in which even when the throttle
34
has been returned, a predetermined jet water stream is rendered capable of being maintained for a predetermined period of time.
An OTS control device
60
for a small boat is a system, which includes the steering handle
28
for steering the boat hull
11
(See FIG.
1
). A fuel injection system
61
is provided for supplying fuel to the engine
15
(See FIG.
1
). A control unit (ECU)
101
is provided for controlling the boat hull
11
. A display device
70
equipped with a display control unit
74
as a control unit is provided for displaying a state of the boat hull
11
. This system is a system for raising the number of revolutions of the engine
15
to a predetermined number of revolutions irrespective of the throttle
64
when the engine
15
rotates at a predetermined number of revolutions or higher for a predetermined time period or more, and the throttle
64
is opened at a predetermined opening or more for a predetermined time period or more. In addition, if the throttle
64
is closed and at the same time, the steering wheel
28
is turned to the left or right more than a predetermined angle, the system raises the number of revolutions of the engine
15
.
The fuel injection system
61
includes a solenoid
62
for controlling negative pressure on the basis of information from the control unit (ECU)
101
. The throttle
64
is provided in an intake air passage
63
, for adjusting an amount of an air-fuel mixture to be supplied to the engine
15
(See FIG.
1
). A diaphragm
65
is provided between the solenoid
62
and the throttle
64
for adjusting a throttle opening. A throttle position sensor
66
is provided for detecting the throttle opening. A one-way valve
67
is provided between the solenoid
62
and the intake air passage
63
, for preventing negative pressure from reverse-flowing, and pressure from entering. A surge tank
68
is provided between the one-way valve
67
and the solenoid
62
, for relaxing negative pressure fluctuation. An injector
69
is provided for causing fuel to be in a fine spray state to be supplied to the intake air passage
63
. In this figure, θ designates the throttle opening.
FIG. 5
is view in the direction of the arrow
5
in
FIG. 1
, and shows a front surface of a display device
70
(hereinafter, “display device
70
”) of a jet propulsion boat according to the present invention. The display device
70
includes a liquid crystal device
71
as a liquid crystal display unit for displaying operation information. A warning lamp
72
is provided for lighting or blinking when a various warning is needed. An operating switch
73
is provided for performing a switching operation or an input operation. A display control unit
74
is provided for driving the liquid crystal device
71
and the warning lamp
72
and controlling the boat hull
11
. A housing
75
is provided for collectively covering the liquid crystal device
71
, warning lamp
72
and display control unit
74
. A buzzer
79
is provided for giving a warning sound when lighting or blinking the warning lamp
72
.
The liquid crystal device
71
is obtained by forming a tachometer
76
for indicating a number of revolutions of the engine
15
(See FIG.
1
), a speed meter
77
for indicating the boat speed, and a multifunctional display unit
78
for displaying operation information and various warnings.
The multifunctional display unit
78
includes a charging mark
78
a
for blinking when the battery
27
(See
FIG. 1
) is lower than predetermined voltage. A water temperature warning mark
78
b
is provided for blinking when cooling water temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature. An oil warning mark
78
c
is provided for blinking when an amount of engine oil is lower than a predetermine amount, or when engine oil pressure is lower than a predetermined value. A fuel injection system warning mark
78
d
(hereinafter, will be abbreviated as “FI warning mark
78
d
”) is provided for blinking when abnormal conditions are encountered with the fuel injection system
61
(See FIG.
3
). A limit mode indicating mark
78
e
is provided as an indicating lamp indicating that a limited operation mode, which limits the engine output so as not to exceed the predetermined output has been set. A remaining quantity indicator
78
f
is provided for indicating the remaining fuel quantity. A fuel replenish warning mark
78
g
is provided for urging to replenish fuel when the remaining fuel quantity is small. An ID number mark
78
h
is provided for blinking when an ID (Identification) number as a secret number for theft prevention is set and is locked. A key mark
78
i
is provided for lighting when the theft-prevention function has been released. A selector display unit
78
j
is provided for displaying after being switched to time indication, hours underway indication, the number of engine revolutions (hereinafter, will abbreviated as “Ne tacho-indication”), navigation distance indication or cumulative hours underway indication.
In other words, the jet propulsion boat
10
(See
FIG. 1
) is also a propulsion boat equipped with a theft-prevention function, the power source of which can be turned ON or OFF by inputting the ID number.
The operating switch
73
includes a set switch
73
a
to be used when setting time and the like. The mode switch
73
b
is used when switching the selector display unit or when setting the limited operation mode. The ID set switch
73
c
and the ID number switch
73
d
are used when encoding with an ID number for determination.
FIG. 6
is a plan cross-sectional view showing a display device of the small boat according to the present invention. A housing
75
includes a lower case
81
for mounting a display control unit
74
. An upper case
83
is mounted to the lower case
81
through a packing
82
. A display window
84
is mounted onto an opening
83
a
of the upper case
83
. A bush
86
is provided to draw out a harness
85
obtained by tying up in a bundle from the bottom
81
a
of the lower case
81
.
Reference numeral
81
b
designates a boss for supporting the display control unit
74
by standing it in the lower case
81
. Reference numeral
81
c
is a set boss for fastening the display control unit
74
by standing it in the lower case
81
. Reference numerals
87
a
and
87
b
are connectors connected to the display control unit
74
. Reference numerals
88
a
and
88
b
are a plurality of harnesses extending from the display control unit
74
.
FIG. 7
is a block diagram showing a power source system for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. The power source system
90
includes a main switch
45
with a lanyard switch connected to a battery
27
in parallel. A main relay
91
is provided for turning ON/OFF the battery
27
for supplying to the fuel injection system
61
and other accessories
92
(fuel pump to be described later) by connecting a coil portion
91
a
to the main switch
45
in series and connecting a switch portion
91
b
to the battery
27
in series. The display control unit
74
connects to the main switch
45
in parallel in order to control the main relay
91
. The control unit (ECU)
101
is provided for controlling the engine
15
(See
FIG. 1
) having the fuel injection system
61
and the like.
The control unit (ECU)
101
is a portion, which controls the engine
15
and controls the jet propulsion boat
10
(See
FIG. 1
) which controls the fuel injection system
61
and other accessories
92
.
The display control unit
74
is equipped with a microcomputer
74
A which forms the heart of the system. A switch circuit
93
turns ON/OFF the power source of the display control unit
74
itself by inputting information of the main switch
45
with lanyard switch and a predetermined ID number. Delay means
94
is provided for delaying the operation of the switch circuit
93
for a predetermined time period. The delay means
94
inputs ID information for theft prevention, information of the main switch with lanyard switch, speed information of the boat hull, fuel information for displaying the remaining fuel quantity, engine number of revolutions information, and warning lamp display information and the like for lighting the multifunctional function display unit
78
shown in FIG.
5
and the warning lamp
72
, and outputs limited operation information when the fuel injection system
61
(See
FIG. 4
) is controlled for control operation, and lock information which has turned OFF the main relay
91
, and the like. In this respect, a reference numeral
92
designates other accessories.
In other words, a power source system for a small boat supplies a power source to accessories including the fuel injection system
61
, and the like, and is equipped with a control unit for controlling the engine. The small boat is equipped with the main switch
45
with a lanyard switch capable of turning OFF the power source in an emergency by connecting to an occupant through a wire. The power source system
90
is equipped with a main relay
91
for turning ON/OFF the power source to be supplied to the accessories. Control units (display control unit
74
) are connected to the main switch
45
in parallel in order to control the main relay
91
, to supervise the ON/OFF state of the main switch
45
, through the use of the control unit (display control unit
74
) and to ON/OFF control the main relay
91
based on the ON/OFF state.
The structure is arranged such that the main relay
91
is provided in order to turn ON/OFF the power source to be supplied to the accessories including the fuel injection system
61
. Control units (display control unit
74
) are provided in order to control this main relay
91
. The control units (display control unit
74
) are to be connected to the main switch
45
in parallel. An ON/OFF state of the main switch
45
is supervised by the control unit (display control unit
74
) in such a manner that the main relay
91
is turned ON/OFF on the basis of the ON/OFF state. Therefore, ON/OFF of the power source to be supplied to the accessories including the fuel injection system
61
can be collectively controlled. As a result, the power source system
90
can be simplified.
Also, the display control unit
74
outputs to the control unit (ECU)
101
lock information when the main relay
91
is OFF. Therefore, since the control unit (ECU)
101
has the lock information, the engine
15
(See
FIG. 1
) cannot be started even though the main relay
91
is directly connected.
More specifically, the power source system
90
includes a theft-prevention function in the control unit (display control unit
74
). When the control unit (ECU)
101
outputs information to turn OFF the main relay
91
from the control unit (display control unit
74
), it is caused to output a stop signal to stop the engine
15
on the basis of this OFF signal.
When information to turn OFF the main relay
91
is outputted from the control unit (display control unit
74
), the stop signal to stop the engine
15
is outputted on the basis of this OFF signal, whereby there is no possibility that the engine
15
is started even when, for example, the main relay
91
is directly coupled. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the small boat (jet propulsion boat
10
) from being stolen.
FIG. 8
is a side view showing a main switch with a lanyard switch of a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. The main switch
45
includes a lanyard switch portion (switch operation strap)
57
for being connected to the occupant during navigation and a main switch body portion
58
capable of being turned ON/OFF by the lanyard switch portion
57
.
The lanyard switch portion
57
includes a clip portion
57
a
for turning the power source ON/OFF by sandwiching it in the main switch body portion
58
or removing it. A flexible wire
57
b
extends from the clip
57
a
and a hand strap
57
c
is provided to be worn on the occupant's arm by mounting to the tip end of the wire
57
b.
The main switch portion
58
includes a housing
58
a
for being mounted on the boat hull
11
(See FIG.
1
). A switch
58
b
is housed in this housing
58
a
. An outer knob
58
c
is provided for operating the switch
58
b
. A stop button
58
d
is provided inside the outer knob
58
c
and a start switch
58
e
is provided for starting the engine
15
(See FIG.
1
).
This switch turns the switch
58
b
ON when the outer knob
58
c
is pulled outward, maintains the switch ON when the clip
57
a
of the lanyard switch portion
57
is sandwiched, automatically returns to the initial position to turn the switch OFF when the clip
57
d
comes off, and can turn the power source OFF by pressing the stop button
58
d
with the clip
57
a
sandwiched. Hereinafter, the detailed description will be made of an operation of the main switch
45
with the lanyard switch.
FIGS.
9
(
a
) to
9
(
c
) are operating views of the main switch with a lanyard switch for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted.
In FIG.
9
(
a
), the clip
57
a
of the lanyard switch portion
57
is pressed into between the housing
58
a
of the main switch body portion
58
and the outer knob
58
c
as indicated by an arrow ({circle around (
1
)}, whereby the outer knob
58
c
moves as indicated by an arrow ({circle around (
2
)}, and the switch
58
b
can be turned ON.
In FIG.
9
(
b
), the stop button
58
d
is pressed as indicated by an arrow {circle around (
3
)} with the lanyard switch portion
57
fitted in the main switch body portion
58
, whereby the switch
58
b
can be turned OFF.
In FIG.
9
(
c
), when the clip
57
a
of the lanyard switch portion
57
is pulled out between the housing
58
a
of the main switch body portion
58
and the outer knob
58
c
as indicated by an arrow ({circle around (
4
)}, the outer knob
58
c
automatically returns together with the stop button
58
d
as indicated by an arrow {circle around (
5
)}, and the main switch body portion
58
b
turns OFF.
FIGS.
10
(
a
) to
10
(
c
) are operation explanatory views for a power source system for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. FIGS.
10
(
a
) to
10
(
c
) show a relationship in an operating state between a main relay, the display device, a start switch and the engine (for reference numerals, refer to FIG.
8
).
FIG.
10
(
a
) shows an operation relationship when the lanyard switch
57
has been pulled out, i.e., at the termination of navigation or at the time of drainage of water from a pond.
First, as illustrated in FIGS.
9
(
a
) to
9
(
c
), the lanyard switch portion
57
is fitted into the main switch body portion
58
, whereby the main switch
45
, the main relay
91
(See
FIG. 7
) and the display device
70
turn ON in synchronism. Pressing the start switch
58
e
(See
FIG. 4
) starts the engine
15
(See FIG.
1
).
Next, when the lanyard switch
57
is pulled out of the main switch body portion
58
, the main switch
45
, the main relay
91
and the engine
15
turn OFF in synchronism. The display device
70
turns OFF (controlled by delay means
94
equipped for the display control unit
74
as shown in
FIG. 7
) after a predetermined time period t1. Here, the predetermined time period t1 has been set to 10 seconds.
FIG.
9
(
b
) shows an operation relationship when the engine
15
is stopped without pulling the lanyard switch portion
57
out, i.e., when taking a seat for standby and the like, the stop button
58
e
is pressed to turn OFF the main switch
45
, and the main switch
45
is turned ON within time period t2 (t2<t1). Since the display device
70
has been able to maintain the ON-state during time period t1 since the main switch
45
was turned OFF as shown in FIG.
9
(
a
), only the engine
15
is stopped by the above-described operation. The display device
70
stands by while ON is maintained. The display control unit
74
equipped for the display device
70
enters a trouble inspection mode when the display device
70
is turned ON. Therefore, it takes time to start up the display device
70
. Accordingly, the engine
15
is stopped for standing by, and the start switch
58
e
is pressed so as to be able to navigate immediately.
FIG.
9
(
c
) shows an operation relationship when the lanyard switch
57
is not pulled out, but is left standing. When a predetermined time period t3 has elapsed with the engine
15
turned OFF, and the main switch
45
, the main relay
91
and the display device
70
turned ON, the main relay
91
and the display device
70
are automatically caused to turn OFF (controlled by a switch circuit
93
equipped for the display control unit
74
shown in
FIG. 7
) through the use of the display control unit
74
so as to restrain unnecessary power consumption of the battery
27
(See FIG.
1
).
When the main switch
45
shifts from the ON-state to an OFF-state, the power source system
90
(See
FIG. 4
) may cause the main relay
91
to be instantaneously switched from ON to OFF. The control unit (display control unit
74
) maintains the ON-state in the OFF-state of the main switch
45
during a predetermined time period.
For example, when starting up the power source, the control unit often causes the display device and the accessories to be subjected to fault diagnosis and the like. Therefore, when the power source for the control unit is carelessly dropped, it takes time to start up the control unit.
Thus, in the OFF-state of the main switch during a predetermined time period, the control unit maintains the ON-state, whereby the main switch
45
(See
FIG. 4
) is switched to the OFF-state, the main relay
91
is instantaneously switched to OFF, and the supply of power source to the accessories including the fuel injection system
61
and the like is stopped to temporarily stop the jet propulsion boat
10
(See FIG.
1
). Since in this temporarily stopped state, the control unit (display control unit
74
) can maintain the started-up state, the jet propulsion boat
10
can shift from the temporarily stopped state to a navigateable state in a short time. As a result, the convenience of the jet propulsion boat
10
can be improved.
FIG. 11
is a flow chart showing a limited operation setting for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. In this respect, STxxx designates a step No.
ST
101
: Set to a limited operation mode in which the output of the engine
15
(See
FIG. 1
) is limited to a low output. Specifically, continuously depress a set switch
73
a
of the display device
70
. To continuously depress means to continue depressing the set switch
73
a
for five or more seconds. In this respect, the set switch
73
a
is a functional setting switch for the present time setting and the like.
In other words, by setting to a limited operation, a limit mode display mark
78
e
is turned on.
ST
102
: During the limited operation, the limited mode display mark
78
e
is caused to blink to display that the output of the engine
15
is limited in the limited operation.
ST
103
: Release the limited operation mode. Specifically, continuously depress the set switch
73
a
of the display device
70
. The limited mode display mark
78
e
will be turned off.
A small boat (jet propulsion boat
10
) is equipped with a display panel (liquid crystal device
71
) for displaying operation information and a change-over switch (set switch
73
a
) capable of switching from a normal operation to a limited operation. In the normal operation, the output of the engine
15
(See
FIG. 1
) is not limited, while in the limited operation, the output of the engine
15
is limited to a low output. The display device
70
is a display panel (liquid crystal device
71
) having a display lamp (limited mode display mark
78
e
) for lighting when switched to the limited operation.
For example, it is assumed that when a small boat (et propulsion boat
10
), which capable of switching from a normal operation (See
FIG. 1
) to a limited operation is steered in the limited operation, the throttle
64
(See
FIG. 4
) has been opened in order to increase the boat speed. At this time, when the operator is not awareness that the small boat is under the limited operation, the operator may believe that the small boat (et propulsion boat
10
) is not working properly. Therefore, a display lamp (limit mode display mark
78
e
) is provided for displaying that the engine has been switched from the normal operation to the limited operation, whereby convenience can be afforded to the operator.
Also, the display device
70
is a display device having a display lamp (limit mode display mark
78
e
), which is caused to blink during the limited operation, i.e., when the number of revolutions of the engine
15
reaches a predetermined number of revolutions or more and the output of the engine
15
is limited.
The display lamp (limit mode display mark
78
e
) is caused to blink during the limited operation, whereby it can strongly provide the impression that the transportation means is in the limited operation mode.
Furthermore, in the display device
70
, the change-over switch (set switch
73
a
) may also serve the dual functional of a change-over switch for the display panel (liquid crystal device
71
).
The change-over switch (set switch
73
a
) serves the dual function of a change-over switch for the display panel (liquid crystal device
71
). Therefore, the operation function can be made multifunctional. Therefore, the display device
70
can be miniaturized.
FIG. 12
is a flow chart showing a fault diagnosis procedure for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. In this respect, STxxx designates a step No.
ST
201
: Lighting of a fuel injection (FI) warning mark
78
d
can notify the operator that the fuel injection system
61
(See
FIG. 3
) is not working properly.
ST
202
: Perform fault diagnosis. Specifically, continuously depress both the set switch
73
a
and the mode switch
73
b
of the display device
70
at the same time.
If the warning lamp
72
blinks once, it shows that the negative pressure in the intake air passage
63
(See
FIG. 4
) is out of order. When the warning lamp
72
blinks three times, it shows that the fuel pump (not shown) is out of order. When the warning lamp
72
blinks twice, it shows that the throttle link
47
(See
FIG. 3
) is out of order. Accordingly, these trouble points will be recognized immediately.
ST
203
: Release the above-described fault diagnosis mode. Specifically, press the mode switch
73
b
, or it will be automatically released after a lapse of 30 seconds without warning.
A transportation means (et propulsion boat
10
) is equipped with a multifunctional display unit
78
, which displays operation information and various warnings. An operating switch
73
is provided for operating the display content of the multifunctional display unit
78
. The fuel injection system
61
(See
FIG. 4
) is provided for injecting fuel into a driving source. In this transportation means, the display device
70
is a display device in which the multifunctional display unit
78
is provided with the warning lamp
72
for warning that the fuel injection system
61
is not working properly. The warning lamp
72
is arranged to light or blink. When the warning lamp
72
lights or blinks, a function to display an abnormal symptom through the use of a blink pattern (such as, for example, blinking once, blinking twice or three times) is provided by operating the operating switch
73
.
Generally, the fuel injection system is a device for mixing air with fuel to supply an air-fuel mixture in vaporized form into the engine. When the fuel injection system is not working properly, it is difficult to distinguish whether the intake air system is out of order, the fuel supply system is out of order or other portions are out of order.
Thus, there is provided the warning lamp
72
for warning that the fuel injection system
61
(See
FIG. 4
) is out of order, which notifies of the abnormality of the fuel injection system
61
. Also, this warning lamp
72
is caused to light or blink, whereby it emphasizes that the fuel injection system
61
is out of order. Furthermore, a function for displaying the abnormal symptom through the use of the blink pattern is provided by operating the operating switch
73
when the warning lamp
72
lights or blinks. Accordingly, an immediate measure can be taken to cope with the trouble with the fuel injection system
61
.
In other words, since the function for displaying the abnormal symptom through the use of the blink pattern is provided by operating the operating switch
73
when the warning lamp
72
lights or blinks, it is possible to improve the troubleshooting of the fuel injection system
61
.
FIG. 13
is a flow chart showing a locking/unlocking procedure for a theft prevention function for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted (for reference numerals, refer to FIG.
7
). In this respect, STxxx designates a step No.
ST
301
: Turn ON the main switch
45
.
ST
302
: Judge whether or not the ID lock (theft prevention function) has been turned ON. If YES, the sequence will proceed to ST
303
, and if NO, to ST
307
.
ST
303
: Input the ID number through the use of the ID number switch
3
d
. An allowable number of times for input of this ID number has been set to three times at a maximum. That is, if a mistake is made three times, the power source for the display device
70
(See
FIG. 4
) will turn off.
ST
304
: Judge whether or not the ID number is correct. If YES, the sequence will proceed to ST
306
, and if NO, the sequence will return to ST
302
through ST
305
and ST
306
.
ST
305
: Sound a buzzer as a warning.
ST
306
: As a result of checking, display that the ID number is wrong (checking NG display). In other words, the ID mark
78
h
(See FIG.
5
), the key mark
78
i
and the inputted number blink and display.
ST
307
: Unlock the ID lock.
ST
308
: Unlock the control unit (ECU)
101
.
ST
309
: Turn ON the main relay
91
. In this state, complete the start-up of the display device
70
(See FIG.
4
). Hereinafter, an ID lock locking procedure will be shown.
ST
310
: Continuously depress the ID set switch
73
c
. In this case, a time period for continuously depressing is set to two or more seconds.
ST
311
: A setting-wait-display for the ID lock is displayed on the display device
70
.
ST
312
: Press the ID set switch
73
c.
ST
313
: The ID lock is locked.
ST
314
: The control unit (ECU)
101
is locked, and the display device
70
(See
FIG. 4
) becomes inoperable.
ST
315
: The main relay
91
turns OFF.
FIGS.
14
(
a
) and
14
(
b
) are flow charts (for reference numerals, refer to
FIG. 5
) showing procedures for new ID registration/ID forced release of the theft prevention function for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. In this respect, STxxx designates a step No.
FIG.
14
(
a
) shows a procedure for new ID registration of the ID lock (theft prevention function).
ST
401
: Turn ON the main switch
45
(See FIG.
7
).
ST
402
: Continuously depress the ID number switch
73
d
. In this case, the time period for continuously depressing is set to two or more seconds.
ST
403
: Input the ID number through the use of the ID number switch
73
d.
ST
404
: By continuously depressing the ID set switch
73
c
, a new ID number can be registered. In this case, the time period for continuously depressing is set to two or more seconds.
Thereafter, this operation will be completed by way of the steps of ST
309
to ST
312
shown in FIG.
13
.
FIG.
14
(
b
) shows the procedure for ID forced release of the ID lock (theft prevention function).
ST
501
: A fuel signal is caused to be in an open state. That is, it is caused to be in a state in which a harness from a fuel sensor (not shown) of the fuel injection system
61
has been removed. For example, one of the harness
87
a
,
87
b
shown in, for example,
FIG. 6
is removed.
ST
502
: Turn ON the main switch
45
(See FIG.
7
).
ST
503
: Continuously depress both the set switch
73
a
and the mode switch
73
b
at the same time. In this case, the time period for continuously depressing is set to five seconds.
ST
504
: Input a number for release as a predetermined number through the use of the ID number switch
73
d
. In this case, the number for release is a predetermined number during manufacture of the boat hull, such as the boat hull number.
ST
505
: The ID number is reset. In this respect, when the ID number is reset to become the initial value “000”, the ID lock cannot be locked any longer, but the ID number will be inputted again.
ST
506
: Turn OFF the main switch
45
.
ST
507
: The fuel signal is caused to be in a close state. In other words, the harness removed will be returned to the original state.
That is, by the operations in ST
501
to ST
505
, the ID number can be forcibly released to reset the ID number.
When newly using, start with new registration of the ID number again.
In transportation means equipped with a theft prevention function capable of turning ON the power source by the occupant inputting a secret number, a secret number release method for the theft prevention function in the transportation means jet propulsion boat
10
) is a method by which the secret number is rendered capable of being released by removing at least one of a plurality of harness
87
a
,
87
b
(See
FIG. 6
) connected to the theft prevention function, by inputting a predetermined number (number for release).
For example, if the operator or the owner has forgotten the secret number, the entire theft prevention function is typically replaced. Accordingly, the repair expenses will be enormously high. On the other hand, when the secret number can be simply reset, the theft prevention function cannot be maintained.
Thus, since the secret number is rendered capable of being released by removing at least one of a plurality of harness
87
a
,
87
b
(See
FIG. 6
) connected to the theft prevention function, by inputting a predetermined number, it is possible to make forgetting the secret number and maintenance of the theft prevention function compatible.
FIG. 15
is a flow chart (for reference numerals, refer to
FIG. 5
) showing a procedure for changing a registration ID number of the theft prevention function for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted. In this respect, STxxx designates a step No.
ST
601
: Continuously depress the ID number switch
73
d
. In this case, a time period for continuously depressing is set to two or more seconds.
ST
602
: Input the registered ID number.
ST
603
: The inputted ID number blinks.
ST
604
: Continuously depress the number switch
73
d
. In this case, a time period for continuously depressing is set to two or more seconds.
ST
605
: Judge whether or not the ID number is correct. If YES, the sequence will proceed to ST
506
, and if NO, the sequence will return to ST
602
through ST
608
. In this respect, an allowable number of times for input of this ID number has been set to three times at a maximum. That is, if a mistake is made three times, the power source for the display device
70
(See
FIG. 4
) will turn off.
ST
606
: Input the new ID number.
ST
607
: Sound the buzzer as a warning.
ST
608
: As a result of checking, display that the ID number is wrong (checking NG display). In other words, blink and display the ID mark
78
h
(See FIG.
5
), the key mark
78
i
and the inputted number.
ST
609
: Blink the new ID number.
ST
610
: Continuously depress the ID set switch
73
c
. In this case, the time period for continuously depressing is set to two or more seconds.
ST
611
: By lighting the new ID number, display that the registration has been completed.
FIG. 16
is a view showing a control system for a small boat onto which a display device according to the present invention has been mounted.
The control system
100
for small boat is mainly composed of: a battery
27
which is a power source supply source; an injector
69
(displayed as “injector
69
A to
69
D”) for the fuel injection system
61
(See FIG.
4
); a main relay
91
; a display control unit
74
mounted onto the display device
70
(See FIG.
5
); and a control unit (ECU)
101
for controlling the engine
15
(See FIG.
1
).
In
FIG. 16
, a reference numeral
102
designates a starter; reference numeral
103
is a starter relay for turning the starter
102
ON/OFF; reference numeral
104
is a generator; reference numeral
105
is a regulator for regulating voltage generated by the generator; reference numeral
107
is a buzzer connected to the display control unit
74
; reference numeral
108
is a speed sensor connected to the display control unit
74
; reference numeral
109
is a fuel sensor connected to the display control unit
74
; reference numeral
111
is a temperature sensor connected to the control unit (ECU)
101
; reference numeral
112
is a water temperature sensor connected to the control unit (ECU)
101
; reference numeral
113
is an exhaust temperature detection sensor connected to the control unit (ECU)
101
; reference numeral
114
is an oil temperature sensor connected to the control unit (ECU)
101
for detecting temperature of the engine oil; reference numerals
116
A to
116
D are ignition system members (ignition plug and ignition coil); reference numeral
117
is an oil pressure sensor; reference numeral
118
is a knock sensor for detecting knocking in the engine
15
; reference numeral
121
is a fuel pump; and reference numeral
122
is a relay for turning the fuel pump ON/OFF.
A flow indicated by an arrow A shows engine oil information, temperature information, fuel information, engine number of revolutions information, warning lamp information and OTS (Off Throttle Steering System) information that are sent from the control unit (ECU)
101
to the display control unit
74
.
Also, a flow indicated by an arrow B shows lock information and limited operation information that are sent from the display control unit
74
to the control unit (ECU)
10
.
In the embodiments of the present invention, a display lamp (limit mode display mark) which is caused to light when switched to the limited operation has been caused to light as shown in FIG.
11
. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, but it may be possible to use, for example, a display lamp which has been arranged to sound a buzzer together with lighting of the display lamp.
The present invention exhibits the following effect due to the above-described structure.
For example, it is assumed that when a small boat capable of switching from a normal operation to a limited operation, a throttle is opened in order to increase the speed of the small boat. At this time, when the operator is not awareness that the small boat is under the limited operation, the operator may believe that the small boat is not working properly.
According to a first aspect of the present invention, a display lamp is provided for lighting when switched to the limited operation in a small boat capable of switching from a normal operation to a limited operation. Therefore, convenience can be afforded to the operator.
According to the second aspect of the present invention, since the display lamp is caused to blink during the limited operation, it can strongly provide the operator with the impression that the transportation means is under the limited operation.
According to the third aspect of the present invention, since the change-over switch has been arranged to serve the dual function of a change-over switch for the display panel, the operation function can be made multifunctional. As a result, the display device can be miniaturized.
The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
Claims
- 1. A display device for a small boat, comprising:a display housing; a change-over switch capable of switching from a normal operation to a limited operation, the output of an engine not being limited in the normal operation, and the output of the engine being limited to a low output in the limited operation; and a display panel, said display panel displaying operation information, said display panel having a display lamp for lighting when said change-over switch is switched to the limited operation, wherein said change-over switch and said display panel are mounted adjacent to each other on said display housing.
- 2. The display device for a small boat according to claim 1, wherein said display lamp is caused to blink during said limited operation.
- 3. The display device for a small boat according to claim 1, wherein said change-over switch serves the dual function of a change-over switch for said display panel.
- 4. The display device for a small boat according to claim 2, wherein said change-over switch serves the dual function of a change-over switch for said display panel.
- 5. The display device for a small boat according to claim 1, wherein said display panel includes a buzzer, said buzzer sounding together with the lighting of the display lamp.
- 6. The display device for a small boat according to claim 2, wherein said display panel includes a buzzer, said buzzer sounding together with the lighting of the display lamp.
- 7. A small boat, comprising:a body; an engine, said engine being mounted on said body; and a display device, said display device comprising: a display housing; a change-over switch capable of switching said engine from a normal operation to a limited operation, the output of the engine not being limited in the normal operation, and the output of the engine being limited to a low output in the limited operation; and a display panel, said display panel displaying operation information, said display panel having a display lamp for lighting when said change-over switch is switched to the limited operation, wherein said change-over switch and said display panel are mounted adjacent to each other on said display housing.
- 8. The small boat according to claim 7, wherein said display lamp is caused to blink during said limited operation.
- 9. The small boat according to claim 7, wherein said change-over switch serves the dual function of a change-over switch for said display panel.
- 10. The small boat according to claim 8, wherein said change-over switch serves the dual function of a change-over switch for said display panel.
- 11. The small boat according to claim 7, wherein said display panel includes a buzzer, said buzzer sounding together with the lighting of the display lamp.
- 12. The small boat according to claim 8, wherein said display panel includes a buzzer, said buzzer sounding together with the lighting of the display lamp.
- 13. A display device for a small boat comprising:a change-over switch capable of switching from a normal operation to a limited operation, the output of an engine not being limited in the normal operation, and the output of the engine being limited to a low output in the limited operation; and a display panel, said display panel displaying operation information, said display panel having a display lamp for lighting when said change-over switch is switched to the limited operation, wherein said change-over switch and said display panel are located adjacent to each other on said display device, and wherein said display device includes an upper case and a lower case connected to each other to form a space therebetween, said upper case including a display window therein to view the display panel therethrough.
- 14. The display device for a small boat according to claim 13, wherein said change-over switch is mounted to said upper case adjacent to said display window.
- 15. The display device for a small boat according to claim 14, wherein said display panel includes a buzzer, said buzzer sounding together with the lighting of the display lamp, and said buzzer is mounted to said uppercase adjacent to said display window on an opposite side from said change-over switch.
- 16. A small boat, comprising:a body; an engine, said engine being mounted on said body; and a display device, said display device comprising: a change-over switch capable of switching said engine from a normal operation to a limited operation, the output of the engine not being limited in the normal operation, and the output of the engine being limited to a low output in the limited operation; and a display panel, said display panel displaying operation information, said display panel having a display lamp for lighting when said change-over switch is switched to the limited operation, wherein said change-over switch and said display panel are located adjacent to each other on said display device, and wherein said display device includes an upper case and a lower case connected to each other to form a space therebetween, said upper case including a display window therein to view the display panel therethrough.
- 17. The small boat according to claim 16, wherein said change-over switch is mounted to said upper case adjacent to said display window.
- 18. The small boat according to claim 17, wherein said display panel includes a buzzer, said buzzer sounding together with the lighting of the display lamp, and said buzzer is mounted to said upper case adjacent to said display window on an opposite side from said change-over switch.
- 19. The display device for a small boat according to claim 13, wherein said display lamp is caused to blink during said limited operation.
- 20. The display device for a small boat according to claim 13, wherein said change-over switch serves the dual function of a change-over switch for said display panel.
- 21. The display device for a small boat according to claim 13, wherein said display panel includes a buzzer, said buzzer sounding together with the lighting of the display lamp.
- 22. The small boat according to claim 16, wherein said display lamp is caused to blink during said limited operation.
- 23. The small boat according to claim 16, wherein said change-over switch serves the dual function of a change-over switch for said display panel.
- 24. The small boat according to claim 16, wherein said display panel includes a buzzer, said buzzer sounding together with the lighting of the display lamp.
Priority Claims (1)
Number |
Date |
Country |
Kind |
2001-283685 |
Sep 2001 |
JP |
|
US Referenced Citations (4)
Foreign Referenced Citations (1)
Number |
Date |
Country |
9-169298 |
Jun 1997 |
JP |