CA1247942A - Marine propulsion device including gauge with adjustable sensitivity - Google Patents
Marine propulsion device including gauge with adjustable sensitivityInfo
- Publication number
- CA1247942A CA1247942A CA000496690A CA496690A CA1247942A CA 1247942 A CA1247942 A CA 1247942A CA 000496690 A CA000496690 A CA 000496690A CA 496690 A CA496690 A CA 496690A CA 1247942 A CA1247942 A CA 1247942A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- trim
- propulsion unit
- gauge
- variable resistance
- variable
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
- 230000035945 sensitivity Effects 0.000 title claims description 30
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 claims description 42
- 230000004308 accommodation Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 7
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 7
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000009966 trimming Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012886 linear function Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63H—MARINE PROPULSION OR STEERING
- B63H20/00—Outboard propulsion units, e.g. outboard motors or Z-drives; Arrangements thereof on vessels
- B63H20/08—Means enabling movement of the position of the propulsion element, e.g. for trim, tilt or steering; Control of trim or tilt
- B63H20/10—Means enabling trim or tilt, or lifting of the propulsion element when an obstruction is hit; Control of trim or tilt
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02B—INTERNAL-COMBUSTION PISTON ENGINES; COMBUSTION ENGINES IN GENERAL
- F02B61/00—Adaptations of engines for driving vehicles or for driving propellers; Combinations of engines with gearing
- F02B61/04—Adaptations of engines for driving vehicles or for driving propellers; Combinations of engines with gearing for driving propellers
- F02B61/045—Adaptations of engines for driving vehicles or for driving propellers; Combinations of engines with gearing for driving propellers for marine engines
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Measurement Of Length, Angles, Or The Like Using Electric Or Magnetic Means (AREA)
- Measuring Volume Flow (AREA)
- Level Indicators Using A Float (AREA)
- General Details Of Gearings (AREA)
- Geophysics And Detection Of Objects (AREA)
- Circuits Of Receivers In General (AREA)
- Instrument Panels (AREA)
- Arrangements For Transmission Of Measured Signals (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A marine propulsion device including a gauge including a magnet supported for pivotal movement, a first wire coil adjacent the magnet and adapted to be connected to a power source, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection with the first coil and adapted to be connected to ground, and a variable resistor in parallel electrical connection with the second coil.
A marine propulsion device including a gauge including a magnet supported for pivotal movement, a first wire coil adjacent the magnet and adapted to be connected to a power source, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection with the first coil and adapted to be connected to ground, and a variable resistor in parallel electrical connection with the second coil.
Description
d L~ L~ ~
~A~INE PROPULSION DEVICE
INCLUDING
GAUGE WITH ADJUSTABLE SENSITIVITY
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Tnis invention relates to mechanisms provided for indicating the general angular position of a marine propulsion device relative to a boat transom and, more particularly, to trim sending devices and trim gauges.
Attention is directed to the following U.S. Patents:
Patentee Patent No. Granted W. B. Lurie 2,681,435 June 15, 1954 J. R. Baskett 3,380,011 April ~3, 1968 W. A. Barden 3,564.476 Februa~y 16~ 1971 Kenneth W. Wise 3,601,082 August 24, 1971 Robert C. Schmiedel 3,641,965 ~ebruary 15, 1972 Lambrecht, et al. 3,722,456 .~arch 27, 1973 Lyle C. Pinkerton 3,750,617 August 7, 1973 Carpenter, et al~ 3,797,449 .~arch 19, 1974 Hager, et al. 3,834,345 Septem~er 10, 1974 Collis, et al. 3,844,247 October 29, 1974 Micnael Hentschel 3,848,185 November 12, 1974 Drabenko, et al. 3,886,448 May 27, 1975 ~5 Hager, et al. 3,894,250 July 8, 1975 Lambrecht, et al. 3,929,089 December 30, 1975 Collis, et al 3,931,~84 January 13, 1976 J. A. Davi5 4,005,674 February 1, 1977 Woodfill, et al. 4,051,801 October 4, 1977 Wenstadt, et al. 4,318,699 .~arch 9, 19~2 Ludwig Lohner 4,364,733 Decem~er 21, 1982 Donald 0. West 4,420,741 December 13, 1983 Arthur R. Ferguson 4,449,945 May 22, 1984 E. I. Ballard 4,459,115 July 10, 1984 Lambrecht, et al. Re. 28,816 May 18, 1976 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention provides a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit steeraDle about a generally vertical axis and tiltable about a generally horizontaL axis. The propulsion unit includes a lower unit and a propeller rotatably supported by the lower unit, a trim sending device for indicating the general vertical angular position of the propulsion unit, and including a variable resistor adapted to ~e connected to ground, and a trim gauge comprising a magnet suppor~ed for pivotal movement, a fiest wire coil adjacent t~e magnet and adapted to be connected to a power source, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection With the first coil and adapted to oe connected to ground, a lead electrically connected Detween the first coil and the second coil and electrically connected to the trim sending device varia~le resistor, and means for varying the sensitivity or tne gauge to the resistance of ~he trim sending device variable resistor.
This invention also provides a gauge including a magnet supported for pivotal movement, a first wire coil adjacent the magnet and adapted to be connected to a power source, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection 30 with the f irst coil and adapted to be connected ~o ground, and means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge.
~.Z~t~9 ~2 _3_ 67363-709 In one embodiment, the sensitivity varying means comprises a variable resistor in parallel electrical connection with one of the first coil and the second coil.
In one embodiment, the sensitivity varying means comprises a variable resistor in parallel electrical connection with the trim sending device.
The invention also provides a gauge including a permanent magnet supported for pivotal movement, a first wire coil adjacent the magnet and having a first end adapted to be connected to a power source and a second end, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent the first coil and having a first end adapted to be connected to ground independently of an input signal, and a second end, means connecting the second end of the first and second coils and adapted to receive an input signal, and means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge.
The invention also includes a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat so as to be tiltable about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, a trim sending device including a first variable resistance mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and respon~ive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis and operable to provide a variable electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the variable electrical effect and including first and second coils operahle to 7~
develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, wh.ich trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which marine propulsion device further includes sensitivity varying means for varying the response of the trim gauge to the variable electrical effect and operable to position the pointer substantially to the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range to the tilt range, and which sensitivity varying means includes a second variable resiskance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independ~ntly of the first variable resistance.
The invention also pxovides a trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device includin~ a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat or tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle~ which trim indicating system comprises a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical 7~
effect indicative of the degree oE rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to dPvelop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, and which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which trim indicating system further includes sensitivity varying means for varying the response of the trim gauge to the variable electrical ef~ec~ and operable to posit-ion the pointer substantially to the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about ~he horizontal axis from the trim range through the predetermined angle to the tilt range, which sensitivity varying means includes a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance.
The invention also provides a trim indicating system ~or use in conjunc~ion with a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat Eor tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propul~ion unit relative to the transom is less than a 7C3~
predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, which trim indicating system comprises a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, and which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which trim indicating system further includes sensitivity varying means for varying the response of the trim gauge to the variable electrical e~fect and operable to position the pointer substantially to the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment w}len the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range through the predetermined angle to the tilt range, and which sensitivity varying means includes a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance and is in parallel electrical connection with the first variable resistance.
The invention also provides a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles whlch vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion device includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on transom a boat so as to be tiltable about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, a trim sending device including a first variable resistance mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis and operable to provide a variable electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the variable electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a Eace having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which marine propulsion device further includes adjustable means for locating the pointer substantially at the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accammodation by the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range to the tilt range, which adjustable means includes a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance.
~ ~7~3~2 The invention also provides a trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion device includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on a boat transom for tilting movement about a generallY horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, which trim indicating system comprises a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit abou-t the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, and which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which trim indicating system further includes adjustable means for locating the pointer substantially to the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation by the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range through the predetermined angle to the tilt range, which adjustable means includes a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance.
The invention also provides a trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion unit includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on a boat transom for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, which trim indicating system comprises a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field havlng direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, and which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which trim indicating system further includes adjustable means for locating the pointer substantially to the end of the trim 79 ~
-3&- 67363-709 segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation of -the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range through the predeter~ined angle to the tilt range, which adjustable means includes a second variable resis~ance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance and being in parallel electxical connection with the first variable resistance.
One of the principal features of the invention is the provision of a gauge whlch includes means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge so that the sensitivity of the gauge can be readily adjusted. This permits the gauge to be individually adjusted to best match the particular trim characteristics oE whatever boat it is installed on.
For example, the sensitivity varying means permits ~he gauge to be adjusted in the "field" so that the gauge properly indicates full trim at the point for the particular motor in its particular installation.
Further, the gauge can be used with different variable resistor sending devices.
Another of the principal features of the invention is the provision of such a gauge which is easily adjustable.
Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reviewing the following description, the drawings, and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FigO 1 is a schematic side viaw representation of a marine propulsion device which embodies various of the features of the invention.
Fig. ~ is an enlarged view of a portion of the marine propulsion device including a trim sending device which embodies various of the features of the invention.
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the trim sending device taken along the line 3-3 in Fig.
~A~INE PROPULSION DEVICE
INCLUDING
GAUGE WITH ADJUSTABLE SENSITIVITY
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Tnis invention relates to mechanisms provided for indicating the general angular position of a marine propulsion device relative to a boat transom and, more particularly, to trim sending devices and trim gauges.
Attention is directed to the following U.S. Patents:
Patentee Patent No. Granted W. B. Lurie 2,681,435 June 15, 1954 J. R. Baskett 3,380,011 April ~3, 1968 W. A. Barden 3,564.476 Februa~y 16~ 1971 Kenneth W. Wise 3,601,082 August 24, 1971 Robert C. Schmiedel 3,641,965 ~ebruary 15, 1972 Lambrecht, et al. 3,722,456 .~arch 27, 1973 Lyle C. Pinkerton 3,750,617 August 7, 1973 Carpenter, et al~ 3,797,449 .~arch 19, 1974 Hager, et al. 3,834,345 Septem~er 10, 1974 Collis, et al. 3,844,247 October 29, 1974 Micnael Hentschel 3,848,185 November 12, 1974 Drabenko, et al. 3,886,448 May 27, 1975 ~5 Hager, et al. 3,894,250 July 8, 1975 Lambrecht, et al. 3,929,089 December 30, 1975 Collis, et al 3,931,~84 January 13, 1976 J. A. Davi5 4,005,674 February 1, 1977 Woodfill, et al. 4,051,801 October 4, 1977 Wenstadt, et al. 4,318,699 .~arch 9, 19~2 Ludwig Lohner 4,364,733 Decem~er 21, 1982 Donald 0. West 4,420,741 December 13, 1983 Arthur R. Ferguson 4,449,945 May 22, 1984 E. I. Ballard 4,459,115 July 10, 1984 Lambrecht, et al. Re. 28,816 May 18, 1976 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention provides a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit steeraDle about a generally vertical axis and tiltable about a generally horizontaL axis. The propulsion unit includes a lower unit and a propeller rotatably supported by the lower unit, a trim sending device for indicating the general vertical angular position of the propulsion unit, and including a variable resistor adapted to ~e connected to ground, and a trim gauge comprising a magnet suppor~ed for pivotal movement, a fiest wire coil adjacent t~e magnet and adapted to be connected to a power source, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection With the first coil and adapted to oe connected to ground, a lead electrically connected Detween the first coil and the second coil and electrically connected to the trim sending device varia~le resistor, and means for varying the sensitivity or tne gauge to the resistance of ~he trim sending device variable resistor.
This invention also provides a gauge including a magnet supported for pivotal movement, a first wire coil adjacent the magnet and adapted to be connected to a power source, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection 30 with the f irst coil and adapted to be connected ~o ground, and means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge.
~.Z~t~9 ~2 _3_ 67363-709 In one embodiment, the sensitivity varying means comprises a variable resistor in parallel electrical connection with one of the first coil and the second coil.
In one embodiment, the sensitivity varying means comprises a variable resistor in parallel electrical connection with the trim sending device.
The invention also provides a gauge including a permanent magnet supported for pivotal movement, a first wire coil adjacent the magnet and having a first end adapted to be connected to a power source and a second end, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent the first coil and having a first end adapted to be connected to ground independently of an input signal, and a second end, means connecting the second end of the first and second coils and adapted to receive an input signal, and means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge.
The invention also includes a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat so as to be tiltable about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, a trim sending device including a first variable resistance mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and respon~ive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis and operable to provide a variable electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the variable electrical effect and including first and second coils operahle to 7~
develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, wh.ich trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which marine propulsion device further includes sensitivity varying means for varying the response of the trim gauge to the variable electrical effect and operable to position the pointer substantially to the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range to the tilt range, and which sensitivity varying means includes a second variable resiskance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independ~ntly of the first variable resistance.
The invention also pxovides a trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device includin~ a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat or tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle~ which trim indicating system comprises a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical 7~
effect indicative of the degree oE rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to dPvelop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, and which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which trim indicating system further includes sensitivity varying means for varying the response of the trim gauge to the variable electrical ef~ec~ and operable to posit-ion the pointer substantially to the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about ~he horizontal axis from the trim range through the predetermined angle to the tilt range, which sensitivity varying means includes a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance.
The invention also provides a trim indicating system ~or use in conjunc~ion with a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat Eor tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propul~ion unit relative to the transom is less than a 7C3~
predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, which trim indicating system comprises a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, and which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which trim indicating system further includes sensitivity varying means for varying the response of the trim gauge to the variable electrical e~fect and operable to position the pointer substantially to the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment w}len the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range through the predetermined angle to the tilt range, and which sensitivity varying means includes a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance and is in parallel electrical connection with the first variable resistance.
The invention also provides a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles whlch vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion device includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on transom a boat so as to be tiltable about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, a trim sending device including a first variable resistance mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis and operable to provide a variable electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the variable electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a Eace having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which marine propulsion device further includes adjustable means for locating the pointer substantially at the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accammodation by the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range to the tilt range, which adjustable means includes a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance.
~ ~7~3~2 The invention also provides a trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion device includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on a boat transom for tilting movement about a generallY horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, which trim indicating system comprises a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit abou-t the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, and which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which trim indicating system further includes adjustable means for locating the pointer substantially to the end of the trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation by the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range through the predetermined angle to the tilt range, which adjustable means includes a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance.
The invention also provides a trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion unit includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on a boat transom for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, which trim indicating system comprises a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to the varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field havlng direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through the first and second coils, which trim gauge further includes a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from the end, and which trim gauge further includes a pointer movable relative to the face in response to the variable electrical effect, which trim indicating system further includes adjustable means for locating the pointer substantially to the end of the trim 79 ~
-3&- 67363-709 segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation of -the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that the pointer moves from the trim segment to the tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from the trim range through the predeter~ined angle to the tilt range, which adjustable means includes a second variable resis~ance connected to vary the ratio of currents through the first and second coils independently of the first variable resistance and being in parallel electxical connection with the first variable resistance.
One of the principal features of the invention is the provision of a gauge whlch includes means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge so that the sensitivity of the gauge can be readily adjusted. This permits the gauge to be individually adjusted to best match the particular trim characteristics oE whatever boat it is installed on.
For example, the sensitivity varying means permits ~he gauge to be adjusted in the "field" so that the gauge properly indicates full trim at the point for the particular motor in its particular installation.
Further, the gauge can be used with different variable resistor sending devices.
Another of the principal features of the invention is the provision of such a gauge which is easily adjustable.
Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reviewing the following description, the drawings, and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FigO 1 is a schematic side viaw representation of a marine propulsion device which embodies various of the features of the invention.
Fig. ~ is an enlarged view of a portion of the marine propulsion device including a trim sending device which embodies various of the features of the invention.
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the trim sending device taken along the line 3-3 in Fig.
2.
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of tne trim sending device ta~en along the line 4-~ in Fig.
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of tne trim sending device ta~en along the line 4-~ in Fig.
3.
Fig. 5 is a schematic rep~esentation of a mechanism which is for measuring and visually indicating generally the angular position of the marine propulsion device shown in Fig. 1 and which embodies various of the features of the invention.
Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a trim gauge which embodies various of ~he features of the invention~
Before an explanation of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the detail~ of the construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the fGllowing description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capaDle o other em~odiments and of being practiced and carried out in vacious ways. It is also to De understood tnat the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED ~MBODIMENT
Illustrated in the drawings is a marine propulsion device 10 ~hich includes a mechanism 14 for indicating the amount of swinging movement of or 7~ ~2 angular position of a propulsion unit 18 mounted on a boat transom 22. In the illustrated construction, the marine propulsion unit 18 is in the form of a stern drive and the propulsion unit 18 is mounted on the ~oat transom 22 by mounting means in the form of a gimbal housing areangement 24. The gim~al housing arrangement 24 comprises a transom housing 26 connected to the boat transom 22, and a gimbal ring 27 mounted on the transom housing 2~ for horizontal swinging movement. The propulsion unit 18 is pivotally connected to the gimbal ring 27 for vertical swinging movement. Accordingly, the gimbal housing arrangement 24 permits swinging of the propulsion unit 18 horizontally a~out a generally vertical axis for steering, and swinging of the propulsion unit 18 vertically a~out a generally horizontal pivot axis 23 for trimming and tilting.
Means is ~lso provided in the form of a tilt and trim cylinder assembly 28 connected between the gimoal ring 27 and tne propulsion unit 18 for swinging the propulsion unit 18 vertically relative to tne boat transom 22.
The propulsion unit 18 also includes a lower unit 29 rotatably supporting a propeller 30, and means (not shown) for rotating the propeller 30.
Although other constructions can be employed in other em~odiments, the indicating mechanism 14 (see Fig. 5) provides a visual indication of the general angular position of the propulsion unit 18 rela~ive to the ~oat transom 22.
~ore particularly, the indicating mechanism 14 shows the general angular position of the propulsion unit 18 as the propulsion unit 18 swings vertically relative to the boat transom 22 througn a first ~2'~'7~
angle. The mechanism 14 then indicates the propulsion unit 18 is located at some angular position beyond the first angle~ In tnis particulac embodiment, the first angle i5 a trim angle or range, and movement of tne propulsion unit 18 beyond the trim angle is referred to as the tilt angle or range of the propulsion unit 18. Movement of the propulsion unit 18 through the trim range g~nerally provides for raising and lowering of the ~ow of tne boat to change the attitude of the boat while under power, and movement of the propulsion unit 18 througn the tilt angle raises the propulsion unit 18 out o~
the water for service or storage.
The indicating mecnanism 14 includes means in the form of a trim gauge 34 (see Figs. 5 and 6) for producing a general visual indication of the angular position of the propulsion unit 18, and signal sending means in the form of a trim sending device 3~ for producing a signal operaole to control the trim gauge 34.
More particularly, as illustrated in Figs. 2 through 5, the trim sending device 38 comprises a housing 42, and a variable resistor 46 (see FigO 4) including a resistance element S0 supported within the housing 42 and naving an end 54, a fixed resistor 62 in parallel electrical connection witn the variable resistor 46, and a wiper 58 supported within the housing 42 for pivotal movement along the resistance element 50. Although other constructions can be used in other em~odiments, the housing 42 is mounted on the gimbal ring 27 in spaced reLation from the generally horizontal pivot axis 23.
The trim sending device 38 also includes moving means adapted to ~e responsive to the 7~
swinging movement of the propulsion unit 18 for moving the wiper 58 along the resistance element 50 as the propulsion unit 18 moves througn the trim angle, and for moving the wiper 58 beyond the resistance element end 54 as the propulsion unit 18 moves beyond the predetermined angle. Although other constructions can ~e used in other embodiments, such moving means comprises a lever 66 (see Figs. 2 and 3) pivotally mounted on the housing 42. Tne wiper 58 is connected to the lever 66 for common pivotal movement so tnat the wiper 58 moves along the resistance element 50 as the lever 66 pivots relative to the trim sending device housing 42. More particularly, as illustrated in Figs. 3 and 4, a pin 70 pivotally mounts one end of the lever 66 on the housing 42 and connects tne lever 66 to the wiper ,8.
In other embodiments (not shown)~ the wiper 58 can be connected at the pivot axis 23 to one of the propulsion unit 18 and the gimDal ring 27, and the resistance element 50 can be mounted on the other of the propulsion unit 18 and the gim~al ring 27. An advantage of having the housing 42 spaced from the pivot axis 23 and of using the lever 66, nowever, is that a small amount of propulsion unit swing results in a greater amount of swing of the lever 66 and wiper 58, thereDy increasing the amount of change in resistance produced ~y a change in the angle of the propulsion unit 18. As a result, the sending device 38 is more sensitive to propulsion unit movement~
As illustrated in Fig. 2, the moving means also includes means opera~le ~etween the wiper 58 and the propulsion unit 18 for moving the wiper 58 along the resistance element 50 in an amount which is variaDly proportional to the amount of swinging L~7 9 ~ ;~
movement of tne propulsion unit 18. More particularly, the variable proportional moving means comprises a curved camming surface 78 on the propulsion unit 18 adjacent the free end 74 of the lever 66, and means for ~iasing the free end 74 of the lever 66 into contact with the curved camming surface 78 so that the lever 66 pivots in a manner determined by the curved camming surface 78 as the propulsion unit 18 swings. More particularly, as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, the biasing means is in the form of a torsion spring 82 concent~ic with tne pin 70 and having a first end 86 fixed on the trim sending device housing 42, and a second end 90 which engages tne lever 66 to rotate the lever 66 clockwise wnen viewed as in FigsO l and 2.
The profile of the curved camming surface 78 can be snaped to provide a linear or nonlinear relationship between the amoun~ of wiper movement and vertical movement of the propulsion unit 18, or to alter the multiplication effect on the amount of wiper movement, or to specifically correct for nonlinearites in the indicating mechanism 14 so that the trim gauge indications are directly proportional to tne angle of the propulsion unit 18.
Means is also provided for engaging the leve~ 66 after the lever 66 and wiper 58 swing througn the first angle so that the free end 14 of the lever 66 is positioned to be en~aged by the curved camming surface 78 when the propulsion unit 18 swings back into the trim range. In the illustra~ed embodiment, this means is in the foem of a stop 94 which is located on tne housing 42 and which engages a tao (not shown~ on tne lever 66 after the lever 66 swings through the trim range.
~Z47~4~2 The operation of the trim sending device 38 is therefore as follows:
As the lever 66 and wiper 58 pivot With the propulsion unit 18 tnrough the trim range, the wiper 58 moves along the length of the resistance element 50. As the wiper 58 moves along the resistance element 50, the resistance of the variable resistor 46 changes in a manner determined by the type of resistance element used. In some constructions, the change in resistance will ~e a linear function of the amount of wiper movement, and, in other constructions, the cnange in resistance will ~e a nonlinear function of the amount of wiper movement.
The amount of movement of the wiper 58 at a particular time is dependent upon the shape of the curved camming surface 78. In other words, the curved camming surface 78 allows for great or small amounts of wiper movement with each amount of propulsion unit swing. The provision of the camming surface 78 therefore pecmits one to cnose a desired relationship ~etween the amount of propulsion unit swing and the resulting cnange in the resistance of ~he variable resistor 46. One such desired r~lationsnip is to have the change in resistance, when the sending device 38 is connected to tn~ trim gauge 34, produce a change in the visual indication of trim angle which is directLy proportional to the actual change in the trim angle of the propulsion unit 18.
By having the variable resistor 46 and the fixed resistor 62 in parallel electrical connection, the following result is achieved. The resistance of tne parallel circuit is equal to the 94;~
inverse of one over the resistance of the variabLe resistor 46 plus one over the resistance of the fixed resistor 62. The variable resistor 46, when at its lower resistance, has some small value. As the variable resistor's resistance increases, the total resistance of the parallel circuit increases. At the point where the variable resistor's wiper 58 leaves the end 54 of the resistance element 50, the total resistance provided by the parallel circuit changes in a discontinuous manner and increases significantly. As a result, when the parallel circuit is connected across a voltage source, the discontinuous change in tne resistance causes a discontinuous change in current passing through tne parallel circui~. This change in resistance, when the trim sending device 38 is connected to the trim - gauge 341 produces a discontinuous visual indication of the propulsion unit 18 leaving tne trim range and entering the tiLt range. This visual indication serves to alert an operator of means for swinging tne propulsion unit 18 to discontinue swinging the unit 18 unless tilting of the unit 18 is desired.
When the propulsion unit 58 is in the tilt range, the resulting resistance of the parallel circuit is equal to the value of the ~ixed resistor 62. Since the manufacturing tolerance of a fixed resistor is ~etter than that of a varia~le resistor, the resistance of the sending device 38 when tne propulsion unit 18 is in the tilt range is more predictable. Accordingly, when the propulsion unit 18 is in the ~ilt range, a more predicta~le visual indication is o~tained.
In other em~odiments~ the lever 66 can engage a switch (not snown) whicn is on~ the nousing ~2'.~7~
~ 67363-709 42 and which is el~ctrically connected between the fixed resistor 62 and the variable resistor 46 to open the connection therebetween as the propulsion unit 18 travels beyond the predetermined angle. The switch would thus serve to remove the variable resisto~ 46 from the parallel circuit in a manner similar to the wiper 58 leaving the resistance element 50.
As illustrated in Figs. 5 and 6, the trim gauge 34 comprises a support in the form of a housing 98, and a magnet 102 supported within the housing 98 for pivotal movement about an end thereof, and a first wire coil 106 adjacent the magnet 102 (as shown schematically in ~ig. 5) and in a plane adjacent the magnet 102 and adapted to be connected to a power source, such as the illustrated battery 107. The trim gauge 34 also includes a second wire coil 110 magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection and in ~he same plane with the first coil 106 and connected to ground. More particularly, the second coil 110 is in the form of a first coil portion 111 connected to ground, and a se ond coil portion 112 connected to the firs~ coil portion 111 and the first coil 106 and parallel to hut extendiny in the opposite direction to the first coil 106.
The gauge 34 also includes indicator means in the form of a pointer 114 connected in parallel to the magnet 102 to indicate the amount of pivotal movement of the magnet 102. The trim gauge 34 also includes a lead 118 electrically connected between the first coil 106 and the second coil 110 and adapted to be connected to the variable resistor 46 in the trim sending device 38. More particularly, the lead 118 i5 ~2~t7~2 connected to the terminal 122 of the trim sending device 38. The variable resistor 46 and fixed resistor 62 in the trim sending device 38 are connected to groundg The face 128 of the trim gauge 34 is also illustrated in Fig. 5. The face 128 includes four trimming segments separated by lines numbered one through three, and a tilt segment separated by a fourth line. After the pointer 114 sweeps through the trimming segments, thereby indicating ~he general or approximate angular position of the propulsion unit 18, the pointer 114 travels across the tilt segment, thereby indicating the propulsion unit 18 is now in the tilt range.
In operation, current passing through the ~irst coil 106 and the second coil 110 produces a magnetic field~ Because the first coil 106 and second coil 110 are magnetically adjacent and ex~end; in opposite directions relative to èach another, the amount of current passing through one coil as opposed to the other will determine the magnitude and direction o~ the net magnetic field. The direction of the magnetic field determines the amount of pivotal movement of the magnet 102 because the permanent magnet 102 will always be aligned with the direction of the net magnetic field. As the propulsion unit 18 swings through the trim range, the resistance of the trim sending device 38 changes7 thereby changing the amount of current passing through the coil. This results in a change in the direction of the magnetic field around the magnet 102 and produces a torque applied to the magnet 102. The torque applied to the magnet 102 results in the pivoting of the magnet 102 and movement ~.2~7~
of the pointer 114 as the magnet 102 and pointer 114 align themselves with the direction of the net magnetic field.
The trim gauge 34 also includes means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge, i.e., the sensitivity of the gauge 34 to the resistance of the trim sending device 38, in the form of a variable resistor 126 in parallel electrical connection with one of the first coil 106 and the second coil 110. More particularly, the variable resistor 126 is in parallel electrical connection with the second coil 110.
Alternately, a variable resistor 127 can be connected in parallel electrical connection with the trim sending device 38, as shown by dashed lines in Fig. 5. A
calibration resistor in the form of a fixed resistor (not shown) can also be connected in parallel electrical connection with the first coil 106, if desired.
Adjustment of the variable resistor 126 results in a change in the relative amounts o current passing through the second coil 110, thereby affecting the resulting position of the pointer 114 produced by the resistance of the trim sending device 38. The effect of the variable resistor 126 on the position of the pointer 114 is greater at greater trim sending device resistances.
Trim gauges, such as gauge 34, can be used for various propulsion unit mountiny arrangements on various marine vehicles. As a result, the angular position of the particular propulsion unit when the propulsion unit leaves the trim range and enters the tilt range will vary between different installationsO
The provision of the variable resistor 126 allows a boa~ operator to adjust the ~ensitivity of the gauge 34 to the 7~
particular boat installation so the trim sending device 38 and trim guage 34 properly indicate the transistion between the trim range and the tilt range.
In an alternate embodiment, as illustrated by dotted lines in Fig. 5, a varia~le resistor 130 could alternat1vely be connected in parallel electrical connection witn the first coil 106. The varia~le resistor 130 in this case, however, increases the amount of current sent to the trim sending device 38 and risks overloading the device's power rating. Connection of the variable resistor 126 in parallel with tne second co11 110 i~, therefore, the preferred embodiment for it sends the current to ground.
- As illustrated in Fig. G, the trim gauge 34 also includes means in the form of a knob 134 for adjusting the resistance of the varia~le resistor 126. The knob 134 is accessible from outside of the housing 98 so that an operator can easily change the resistance to calibrate the trim gauge 34.
Various of the features of the invention are set fortn in the following claims~
Fig. 5 is a schematic rep~esentation of a mechanism which is for measuring and visually indicating generally the angular position of the marine propulsion device shown in Fig. 1 and which embodies various of the features of the invention.
Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a trim gauge which embodies various of ~he features of the invention~
Before an explanation of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the detail~ of the construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the fGllowing description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capaDle o other em~odiments and of being practiced and carried out in vacious ways. It is also to De understood tnat the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED ~MBODIMENT
Illustrated in the drawings is a marine propulsion device 10 ~hich includes a mechanism 14 for indicating the amount of swinging movement of or 7~ ~2 angular position of a propulsion unit 18 mounted on a boat transom 22. In the illustrated construction, the marine propulsion unit 18 is in the form of a stern drive and the propulsion unit 18 is mounted on the ~oat transom 22 by mounting means in the form of a gimbal housing areangement 24. The gim~al housing arrangement 24 comprises a transom housing 26 connected to the boat transom 22, and a gimbal ring 27 mounted on the transom housing 2~ for horizontal swinging movement. The propulsion unit 18 is pivotally connected to the gimbal ring 27 for vertical swinging movement. Accordingly, the gimbal housing arrangement 24 permits swinging of the propulsion unit 18 horizontally a~out a generally vertical axis for steering, and swinging of the propulsion unit 18 vertically a~out a generally horizontal pivot axis 23 for trimming and tilting.
Means is ~lso provided in the form of a tilt and trim cylinder assembly 28 connected between the gimoal ring 27 and tne propulsion unit 18 for swinging the propulsion unit 18 vertically relative to tne boat transom 22.
The propulsion unit 18 also includes a lower unit 29 rotatably supporting a propeller 30, and means (not shown) for rotating the propeller 30.
Although other constructions can be employed in other em~odiments, the indicating mechanism 14 (see Fig. 5) provides a visual indication of the general angular position of the propulsion unit 18 rela~ive to the ~oat transom 22.
~ore particularly, the indicating mechanism 14 shows the general angular position of the propulsion unit 18 as the propulsion unit 18 swings vertically relative to the boat transom 22 througn a first ~2'~'7~
angle. The mechanism 14 then indicates the propulsion unit 18 is located at some angular position beyond the first angle~ In tnis particulac embodiment, the first angle i5 a trim angle or range, and movement of tne propulsion unit 18 beyond the trim angle is referred to as the tilt angle or range of the propulsion unit 18. Movement of the propulsion unit 18 through the trim range g~nerally provides for raising and lowering of the ~ow of tne boat to change the attitude of the boat while under power, and movement of the propulsion unit 18 througn the tilt angle raises the propulsion unit 18 out o~
the water for service or storage.
The indicating mecnanism 14 includes means in the form of a trim gauge 34 (see Figs. 5 and 6) for producing a general visual indication of the angular position of the propulsion unit 18, and signal sending means in the form of a trim sending device 3~ for producing a signal operaole to control the trim gauge 34.
More particularly, as illustrated in Figs. 2 through 5, the trim sending device 38 comprises a housing 42, and a variable resistor 46 (see FigO 4) including a resistance element S0 supported within the housing 42 and naving an end 54, a fixed resistor 62 in parallel electrical connection witn the variable resistor 46, and a wiper 58 supported within the housing 42 for pivotal movement along the resistance element 50. Although other constructions can be used in other em~odiments, the housing 42 is mounted on the gimbal ring 27 in spaced reLation from the generally horizontal pivot axis 23.
The trim sending device 38 also includes moving means adapted to ~e responsive to the 7~
swinging movement of the propulsion unit 18 for moving the wiper 58 along the resistance element 50 as the propulsion unit 18 moves througn the trim angle, and for moving the wiper 58 beyond the resistance element end 54 as the propulsion unit 18 moves beyond the predetermined angle. Although other constructions can ~e used in other embodiments, such moving means comprises a lever 66 (see Figs. 2 and 3) pivotally mounted on the housing 42. Tne wiper 58 is connected to the lever 66 for common pivotal movement so tnat the wiper 58 moves along the resistance element 50 as the lever 66 pivots relative to the trim sending device housing 42. More particularly, as illustrated in Figs. 3 and 4, a pin 70 pivotally mounts one end of the lever 66 on the housing 42 and connects tne lever 66 to the wiper ,8.
In other embodiments (not shown)~ the wiper 58 can be connected at the pivot axis 23 to one of the propulsion unit 18 and the gimDal ring 27, and the resistance element 50 can be mounted on the other of the propulsion unit 18 and the gim~al ring 27. An advantage of having the housing 42 spaced from the pivot axis 23 and of using the lever 66, nowever, is that a small amount of propulsion unit swing results in a greater amount of swing of the lever 66 and wiper 58, thereDy increasing the amount of change in resistance produced ~y a change in the angle of the propulsion unit 18. As a result, the sending device 38 is more sensitive to propulsion unit movement~
As illustrated in Fig. 2, the moving means also includes means opera~le ~etween the wiper 58 and the propulsion unit 18 for moving the wiper 58 along the resistance element 50 in an amount which is variaDly proportional to the amount of swinging L~7 9 ~ ;~
movement of tne propulsion unit 18. More particularly, the variable proportional moving means comprises a curved camming surface 78 on the propulsion unit 18 adjacent the free end 74 of the lever 66, and means for ~iasing the free end 74 of the lever 66 into contact with the curved camming surface 78 so that the lever 66 pivots in a manner determined by the curved camming surface 78 as the propulsion unit 18 swings. More particularly, as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, the biasing means is in the form of a torsion spring 82 concent~ic with tne pin 70 and having a first end 86 fixed on the trim sending device housing 42, and a second end 90 which engages tne lever 66 to rotate the lever 66 clockwise wnen viewed as in FigsO l and 2.
The profile of the curved camming surface 78 can be snaped to provide a linear or nonlinear relationship between the amoun~ of wiper movement and vertical movement of the propulsion unit 18, or to alter the multiplication effect on the amount of wiper movement, or to specifically correct for nonlinearites in the indicating mechanism 14 so that the trim gauge indications are directly proportional to tne angle of the propulsion unit 18.
Means is also provided for engaging the leve~ 66 after the lever 66 and wiper 58 swing througn the first angle so that the free end 14 of the lever 66 is positioned to be en~aged by the curved camming surface 78 when the propulsion unit 18 swings back into the trim range. In the illustra~ed embodiment, this means is in the foem of a stop 94 which is located on tne housing 42 and which engages a tao (not shown~ on tne lever 66 after the lever 66 swings through the trim range.
~Z47~4~2 The operation of the trim sending device 38 is therefore as follows:
As the lever 66 and wiper 58 pivot With the propulsion unit 18 tnrough the trim range, the wiper 58 moves along the length of the resistance element 50. As the wiper 58 moves along the resistance element 50, the resistance of the variable resistor 46 changes in a manner determined by the type of resistance element used. In some constructions, the change in resistance will ~e a linear function of the amount of wiper movement, and, in other constructions, the cnange in resistance will ~e a nonlinear function of the amount of wiper movement.
The amount of movement of the wiper 58 at a particular time is dependent upon the shape of the curved camming surface 78. In other words, the curved camming surface 78 allows for great or small amounts of wiper movement with each amount of propulsion unit swing. The provision of the camming surface 78 therefore pecmits one to cnose a desired relationship ~etween the amount of propulsion unit swing and the resulting cnange in the resistance of ~he variable resistor 46. One such desired r~lationsnip is to have the change in resistance, when the sending device 38 is connected to tn~ trim gauge 34, produce a change in the visual indication of trim angle which is directLy proportional to the actual change in the trim angle of the propulsion unit 18.
By having the variable resistor 46 and the fixed resistor 62 in parallel electrical connection, the following result is achieved. The resistance of tne parallel circuit is equal to the 94;~
inverse of one over the resistance of the variabLe resistor 46 plus one over the resistance of the fixed resistor 62. The variable resistor 46, when at its lower resistance, has some small value. As the variable resistor's resistance increases, the total resistance of the parallel circuit increases. At the point where the variable resistor's wiper 58 leaves the end 54 of the resistance element 50, the total resistance provided by the parallel circuit changes in a discontinuous manner and increases significantly. As a result, when the parallel circuit is connected across a voltage source, the discontinuous change in tne resistance causes a discontinuous change in current passing through tne parallel circui~. This change in resistance, when the trim sending device 38 is connected to the trim - gauge 341 produces a discontinuous visual indication of the propulsion unit 18 leaving tne trim range and entering the tiLt range. This visual indication serves to alert an operator of means for swinging tne propulsion unit 18 to discontinue swinging the unit 18 unless tilting of the unit 18 is desired.
When the propulsion unit 58 is in the tilt range, the resulting resistance of the parallel circuit is equal to the value of the ~ixed resistor 62. Since the manufacturing tolerance of a fixed resistor is ~etter than that of a varia~le resistor, the resistance of the sending device 38 when tne propulsion unit 18 is in the tilt range is more predictable. Accordingly, when the propulsion unit 18 is in the ~ilt range, a more predicta~le visual indication is o~tained.
In other em~odiments~ the lever 66 can engage a switch (not snown) whicn is on~ the nousing ~2'.~7~
~ 67363-709 42 and which is el~ctrically connected between the fixed resistor 62 and the variable resistor 46 to open the connection therebetween as the propulsion unit 18 travels beyond the predetermined angle. The switch would thus serve to remove the variable resisto~ 46 from the parallel circuit in a manner similar to the wiper 58 leaving the resistance element 50.
As illustrated in Figs. 5 and 6, the trim gauge 34 comprises a support in the form of a housing 98, and a magnet 102 supported within the housing 98 for pivotal movement about an end thereof, and a first wire coil 106 adjacent the magnet 102 (as shown schematically in ~ig. 5) and in a plane adjacent the magnet 102 and adapted to be connected to a power source, such as the illustrated battery 107. The trim gauge 34 also includes a second wire coil 110 magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection and in ~he same plane with the first coil 106 and connected to ground. More particularly, the second coil 110 is in the form of a first coil portion 111 connected to ground, and a se ond coil portion 112 connected to the firs~ coil portion 111 and the first coil 106 and parallel to hut extendiny in the opposite direction to the first coil 106.
The gauge 34 also includes indicator means in the form of a pointer 114 connected in parallel to the magnet 102 to indicate the amount of pivotal movement of the magnet 102. The trim gauge 34 also includes a lead 118 electrically connected between the first coil 106 and the second coil 110 and adapted to be connected to the variable resistor 46 in the trim sending device 38. More particularly, the lead 118 i5 ~2~t7~2 connected to the terminal 122 of the trim sending device 38. The variable resistor 46 and fixed resistor 62 in the trim sending device 38 are connected to groundg The face 128 of the trim gauge 34 is also illustrated in Fig. 5. The face 128 includes four trimming segments separated by lines numbered one through three, and a tilt segment separated by a fourth line. After the pointer 114 sweeps through the trimming segments, thereby indicating ~he general or approximate angular position of the propulsion unit 18, the pointer 114 travels across the tilt segment, thereby indicating the propulsion unit 18 is now in the tilt range.
In operation, current passing through the ~irst coil 106 and the second coil 110 produces a magnetic field~ Because the first coil 106 and second coil 110 are magnetically adjacent and ex~end; in opposite directions relative to èach another, the amount of current passing through one coil as opposed to the other will determine the magnitude and direction o~ the net magnetic field. The direction of the magnetic field determines the amount of pivotal movement of the magnet 102 because the permanent magnet 102 will always be aligned with the direction of the net magnetic field. As the propulsion unit 18 swings through the trim range, the resistance of the trim sending device 38 changes7 thereby changing the amount of current passing through the coil. This results in a change in the direction of the magnetic field around the magnet 102 and produces a torque applied to the magnet 102. The torque applied to the magnet 102 results in the pivoting of the magnet 102 and movement ~.2~7~
of the pointer 114 as the magnet 102 and pointer 114 align themselves with the direction of the net magnetic field.
The trim gauge 34 also includes means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge, i.e., the sensitivity of the gauge 34 to the resistance of the trim sending device 38, in the form of a variable resistor 126 in parallel electrical connection with one of the first coil 106 and the second coil 110. More particularly, the variable resistor 126 is in parallel electrical connection with the second coil 110.
Alternately, a variable resistor 127 can be connected in parallel electrical connection with the trim sending device 38, as shown by dashed lines in Fig. 5. A
calibration resistor in the form of a fixed resistor (not shown) can also be connected in parallel electrical connection with the first coil 106, if desired.
Adjustment of the variable resistor 126 results in a change in the relative amounts o current passing through the second coil 110, thereby affecting the resulting position of the pointer 114 produced by the resistance of the trim sending device 38. The effect of the variable resistor 126 on the position of the pointer 114 is greater at greater trim sending device resistances.
Trim gauges, such as gauge 34, can be used for various propulsion unit mountiny arrangements on various marine vehicles. As a result, the angular position of the particular propulsion unit when the propulsion unit leaves the trim range and enters the tilt range will vary between different installationsO
The provision of the variable resistor 126 allows a boa~ operator to adjust the ~ensitivity of the gauge 34 to the 7~
particular boat installation so the trim sending device 38 and trim guage 34 properly indicate the transistion between the trim range and the tilt range.
In an alternate embodiment, as illustrated by dotted lines in Fig. 5, a varia~le resistor 130 could alternat1vely be connected in parallel electrical connection witn the first coil 106. The varia~le resistor 130 in this case, however, increases the amount of current sent to the trim sending device 38 and risks overloading the device's power rating. Connection of the variable resistor 126 in parallel with tne second co11 110 i~, therefore, the preferred embodiment for it sends the current to ground.
- As illustrated in Fig. G, the trim gauge 34 also includes means in the form of a knob 134 for adjusting the resistance of the varia~le resistor 126. The knob 134 is accessible from outside of the housing 98 so that an operator can easily change the resistance to calibrate the trim gauge 34.
Various of the features of the invention are set fortn in the following claims~
Claims (28)
1. A marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit steerable about a generally vertical axis and tiltable about a generally horizontal axis, said propulsion unit including a lower unit and a propeller rotatably supported by said lower unit, a trim sending device for indicating the general vertical angular position of said propulsion unit, and including a variable resistor adapted to be connected to ground, and a trim gauge comprising a magnet supported for pivotal movement, a first wire coil adjacent said magnet and adapted to be connected to a power source, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection with said first coil and adapted to be connected to ground, a lead electrically connected between said first coil and said second coil and electrically connected to said trim sending device variable resistor, and means for varying the sensitivity of the gauge to the resistance of said trim sending device variable resistor.
2. A marine propulsion device in accordance with Claim 1 wherein said sensitivity varying means comprises a variable resistor in parallel electrical connection with one of said first coil and said second coil.
3. A marine propulsion device in accordance with Claim 1 wherein said sensitivity varying means comprises a variable resistor in parallel electrical connection with the trip sending device variable resistor.
4. A gauge including a magnet supported for pivotal movement, a first wire coil adjacent said magnet and adapted to be connected to a power source, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent and in electrical connection with said first coil and adapted to be connected to ground, and means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge.
5. A gauge in accordance with Claim 4 wherein said sensitivity varying means comprises a variable resistor in parallel electrical connection with one of said first coil and said second coil.
6. A gauge in accordance with Claim 5 wherein said variable resistor is in parallel electrical connection with said second coil.
7. A gauge in accordance with Claim 5 wherein said magnet is supported by a housing, and wherein said variable resistor includes means for varying the resistance of said variable resistor and, wherein said resistance varying means is accessible from outside of said housing for calibration.
8. A gauge in accordance with Claim 5 and further including a lead electrically connected between said first coil and said second coil and adapted to be electrically connected to a variable resistor connected to ground.
9. A gauge in accordance with Claim 5 and further including indicator means connected to said magnet for indicating the amount of pivotal movement of said magnet.
10. A gauge including a permanent magnet supported for pivotal movement, a first wire coil adjacent said magnet and having a first end adapted to be connected to a power source and a second end, a second wire coil magnetically adjacent said first coil and having a first end adapted to be connected to ground independently of an input signal, and a second end, means connecting said second end of said first and second coils and adapted to receive an input signal, and means for varying the current sensitivity of the gauge.
11. A marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat so as to be tiltable about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, a trim sending device including a first variable resistance mechanically coupled to said propulsion unit and responsive to movement of said propulsion unit about said horizontal axis and operable to provide a variable electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of said propulsion unit about said horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said variable electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said marine propulsion device further including sensitivity varying means for varying the response of said trim gauge to said variable electrical effect and operable to position said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when said propulsion unit is substantially at said predetermined angle such that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when said propulsion unit moves about said horizontal axis from said trim range to
11. A marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat so as to be tiltable about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, a trim sending device including a first variable resistance mechanically coupled to said propulsion unit and responsive to movement of said propulsion unit about said horizontal axis and operable to provide a variable electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of said propulsion unit about said horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said variable electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said marine propulsion device further including sensitivity varying means for varying the response of said trim gauge to said variable electrical effect and operable to position said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when said propulsion unit is substantially at said predetermined angle such that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when said propulsion unit moves about said horizontal axis from said trim range to
Claim 11 (continued) said tilt range, said sensitivity varying means including a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through said first and second coils independently of said first variable resistance.
12. A marine propulsion device in accordance with claim 11 wherein said second variable resistance is electrically connected in parallel across said first variable resistance.
13. A marine propulsion device in accordance with claim 11 wherein said second variable resistance is electrically connected in parallel across the other of said first and second coils.
14. A marine propulsion device in accordance with claim 11 wherein said second variable resistance is in parallel electrical connection with said one of said first and second coils.
15. A trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, said trim indicating system comprising a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to said propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, and said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said trim indicating system further including sensitivity varying means for varying the response of said trim gauge to said variable electrical effect and operable to position said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves
15. A trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, said trim indicating system comprising a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to said propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, and said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said trim indicating system further including sensitivity varying means for varying the response of said trim gauge to said variable electrical effect and operable to position said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves
Claim 15 (continued) about the horizontal axis from said trim range through said predetermined angle to said tilt range, said sensitivity varying means including a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through said first and second coils independently of said first variable resistance.
16. A trim indicating system in accordance with claim 15 wherein said second variable resistance is electrically connected in parallel across said first variable resistance.
17. A trim indicating system in accordance with claim 15 wherein said second variable resistance is electrically connected in parallel across the other of said first and second coils.
18. A rim indicating system in accordance with claim 15 wherein said second variable resistance is in parallel electrical connection with said one of said first and second coils.
19. A trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, said trim indicating system comprising a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, and said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said trim indicating system further including sensitivity varying means for varying the response of said trim gauge to said variable electrical effect and operable to position said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from said trim range through said predetermined angle to said tilt
19. A trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, said trim indicating system comprising a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, and said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said trim indicating system further including sensitivity varying means for varying the response of said trim gauge to said variable electrical effect and operable to position said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle such that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from said trim range through said predetermined angle to said tilt
Claim 19 (continued) range, said sensitivity varying means including a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through said first and second coils independently of said first variable resistance and being in parallel electrical connection with said first variable resistance.
20. A marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, said marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat so as to be tiltable about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of said propulsion unit about said horizontal axis and operable to provide a variable electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of said propulsion unit about said horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said variable electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said marine propulsion device further including adjustable means for locating said pointer substantially at said end of said trim segment when said propulsion unit is substantially at said predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation by the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when said
20. A marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, said marine propulsion device including a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on the transom of a boat so as to be tiltable about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of said propulsion unit about said horizontal axis and operable to provide a variable electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of said propulsion unit about said horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said variable electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said marine propulsion device further including adjustable means for locating said pointer substantially at said end of said trim segment when said propulsion unit is substantially at said predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation by the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when said
Claim 20 (continued) propulsion unit moves about said horizontal axis from said trim range to said tilt range, said adjustable means including a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through said first and second coils independently of said first variable resistance.
21. A marine propulsion device in accordance with claim 20 wherein said second variable resistance is electrically connected in parallel across said first variable resistance.
22. A marine propulsion device in accordance with claim 20 wherein said second variable resistance is electrically connected in parallel across the other of said first and second coils.
23. A marine propulsion device in accordance with claim 20 wherein said adjustable means includes a variable resistance in parallel electrical connection with one of said first and second coils.
24. A trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion device includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on a boat transom for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, said trim indicating system comprising a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, and said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said trim indicating system further including adjustable means for locating said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation by the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the
24. A trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion device includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on a boat transom for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, said trim indicating system comprising a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, and said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said trim indicating system further including adjustable means for locating said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation by the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the
Claim 24 (continued) horizontal axis from said trim range through said predetermined angle to said tilt range, said adjustable means including a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through said first and second coils independently of said first variable resistance.
25. A trim indicating system in accordance with claim 24 wherein said second variable resistance is electrically connected in parallel across said first variable resistance.
26. A trim indicating system in accordance with claim 24 wherein said second variable resistance is electrically connected in parallel across the other of said first and second coils.
27. A trim indicating system in accordance with claim 24 wherein said second variable resistance is in parallel electrical connection with said one of said first and second coils.
28. A trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion unit includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on a boat transom for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, said trim indicating system comprising a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, and said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said trim indicating system further including adjustable means for locating said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation of the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that
28. A trim indicating system for use in conjunction with a marine propulsion device adapted for mounting on a variety of boats having transom angles which vary relative to one another, which marine propulsion unit includes a propulsion unit adapted to be mounted on a boat transom for tilting movement about a generally horizontal axis and movable through a trim range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is less than a predetermined angle and through a tilt range wherein the angle of the propulsion unit relative to the transom is greater than the predetermined angle, said trim indicating system comprising a trim sending device including a first variable resistance adapted to be mechanically coupled to the propulsion unit and responsive to movement of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis for providing a varying electrical effect indicative of the degree of rotation of the propulsion unit about the horizontal axis, a trim gauge responsive to said varying electrical effect and including first and second coils operable to develop a magnetic field having direction and magnitude related to the ratio of currents through said first and second coils, said trim gauge further including a face having thereon marked a trim segment including an end and a tilt segment extending from said end, and said trim gauge further including a pointer movable relative to said face in response to said variable electrical effect, said trim indicating system further including adjustable means for locating said pointer substantially to said end of said trim segment when the propulsion unit is substantially at the predetermined angle so as to enable accommodation of the gauge to variation in transom angles and so that
Claim 28 (continued) said pointer moves from said trim segment to said tilt segment when the propulsion unit moves about the horizontal axis from said trim range through said predetermined angle to said tilt range, said adjustable means including a second variable resistance connected to vary the ratio of currents through said first and second coils independently of said first variable resistance and being in parallel electrical connection with said first variable resistance.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US74447985A | 1985-06-13 | 1985-06-13 | |
| US744,479 | 1985-06-13 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1247942A true CA1247942A (en) | 1989-01-03 |
Family
ID=24992852
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000496690A Expired CA1247942A (en) | 1985-06-13 | 1985-12-02 | Marine propulsion device including gauge with adjustable sensitivity |
Country Status (7)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPS61285195A (en) |
| BE (1) | BE903758A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1247942A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3542533A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2176762B (en) |
| IT (1) | IT1183028B (en) |
| SE (1) | SE464017B (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE1950839A1 (en) * | 2019-07-03 | 2020-11-03 | Lean Marine Sweden Ab | Method and System for Controlling Propulsive Power Output of Ship |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB806913A (en) * | 1955-03-03 | 1959-01-07 | Smith & Sons Ltd S | Improvements in electrical indicators |
| GB797932A (en) * | 1955-09-13 | 1958-07-09 | Gen Motors Corp | Improvements in electrical indicator instruments |
| US3797449A (en) * | 1971-11-08 | 1974-03-19 | Medallion Instr Inc | Trim indicator and circuit therefor |
| US3753107A (en) * | 1972-06-21 | 1973-08-14 | Ford Motor Co | Magnetic gauge with two v-positioned coils and having magnetic restoring ring |
-
1985
- 1985-12-02 GB GB8529700A patent/GB2176762B/en not_active Expired
- 1985-12-02 IT IT48860/85A patent/IT1183028B/en active
- 1985-12-02 JP JP60271293A patent/JPS61285195A/en active Pending
- 1985-12-02 CA CA000496690A patent/CA1247942A/en not_active Expired
- 1985-12-02 BE BE0/215936A patent/BE903758A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1985-12-02 SE SE8505676A patent/SE464017B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1985-12-02 DE DE19853542533 patent/DE3542533A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JPS61285195A (en) | 1986-12-15 |
| IT8548860A0 (en) | 1985-12-02 |
| GB2176762A (en) | 1987-01-07 |
| BE903758A (en) | 1986-06-02 |
| IT1183028B (en) | 1987-10-05 |
| GB8529700D0 (en) | 1986-01-08 |
| SE464017B (en) | 1991-02-25 |
| GB2176762B (en) | 1989-07-05 |
| DE3542533A1 (en) | 1986-12-18 |
| SE8505676D0 (en) | 1985-12-02 |
| SE8505676L (en) | 1986-12-14 |
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