Evinrude iDOCK
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2017 9:10 am
If you were contemplating re-powering your larger classic Boston Whaler boat with twin engines and considering the Evinrude E-TEC G2 models, then your decision might be swayed by the just introduced newest version of joystick steering system called iDock. Details are a bit sketchy, but Evinrude introduces the iDock at their website at
https://www.evinrude.com/en-US/idock.html
The iDock is only for the new E-TEC G2 engines with integrated hydraulic steering. The system is implemented in the hydraulic hoses linking the engine's integral steering actuators to the boat's helm hydraulic pump, and the ability to steer manually from the helm is always provided. A gyroscopic sensor is said to provide improved performance in the presence of wind and current, allowing the boat to maintain a particular heading while maneuvering with the joystick. In the modern world of micro-electronic-mechanical sensors (MEMS) the implementation of a gyroscope is now very feasible in small electronic devices, and many smartphones have such sensors. The term "aircraft gyro" is frequently mentioned in association with iDock, so the inference is, apparently, that the gyroscope used is suitable for use in aircraft. Generally any electronics for an aircraft cost at least ten time what the same device would cost for a boat. I would expect that any electronic device employing a gyroscope that was approved for use in aircraft to operate the control surfaces of the wings and engine throttles would have to be rather rigorously tested to gain approval. I don't think "aircraft gyro" can be interpreted to mean all that.
The iDock has an MSRP of $5,999, which is said to represent quite a reduced price point for a joystick steering control system. Competitors' systems are said to be priced at two to three times the iDock.
A somewhat noisy musical track accompanies a short recorded presentation showing the iDock in use. Turn down the volume before playing from:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJiylKxTDsA
The recorded presentation urges viewers to "stop worrying about docking." I suggest that people who are prone to worry might also consider worrying about rather complex electronic systems for joystick steering instead--well, okay, that might be a bit paranoid, but if you are prone to worry it might be right in your ballpark.
A pictorial diagram of the hydraulic portion of the system is provided (below), although without some supporting text to further explain, I am not entirely sure what goes on in the two "black boxes" in the drawing, but apparently that's where the magic is. My best guess is the black box at the helm may isolate the helm steering wheel pump when iDock is engaged, and the black box at the stern isolates the two engine lines so they can get different outputs from the iDock hydraulic pump. Here is a sketch of the system:
Evinrude showed the new iDock installed on a SCOUT boat's helm (and probably the same boat as demonstrated in the presentation):
The joystick controller is the only visible component of the system, as the two black boxes are tucked away out of sight and appear to be rather small in comparison to other versions of joystick steering that are implemented with external hydraulic boost pumps. There is an icon on the base of the joystick with the universal ON-OFF meaning, and other than the joystick with rotary knob, that appears to be the only control.The icon illuminates when the iDock is active. Based on some reports from first-hand users who were able to test a prototype of the product several months ago, when the joystick is moved beyond an initial detent in the motion range, the engine RPM will increase to provide more thrust; this may be needed in maneuvers being made in strong winds or with current effects at the dock.
https://www.evinrude.com/en-US/idock.html
The iDock is only for the new E-TEC G2 engines with integrated hydraulic steering. The system is implemented in the hydraulic hoses linking the engine's integral steering actuators to the boat's helm hydraulic pump, and the ability to steer manually from the helm is always provided. A gyroscopic sensor is said to provide improved performance in the presence of wind and current, allowing the boat to maintain a particular heading while maneuvering with the joystick. In the modern world of micro-electronic-mechanical sensors (MEMS) the implementation of a gyroscope is now very feasible in small electronic devices, and many smartphones have such sensors. The term "aircraft gyro" is frequently mentioned in association with iDock, so the inference is, apparently, that the gyroscope used is suitable for use in aircraft. Generally any electronics for an aircraft cost at least ten time what the same device would cost for a boat. I would expect that any electronic device employing a gyroscope that was approved for use in aircraft to operate the control surfaces of the wings and engine throttles would have to be rather rigorously tested to gain approval. I don't think "aircraft gyro" can be interpreted to mean all that.
The iDock has an MSRP of $5,999, which is said to represent quite a reduced price point for a joystick steering control system. Competitors' systems are said to be priced at two to three times the iDock.
A somewhat noisy musical track accompanies a short recorded presentation showing the iDock in use. Turn down the volume before playing from:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJiylKxTDsA
The recorded presentation urges viewers to "stop worrying about docking." I suggest that people who are prone to worry might also consider worrying about rather complex electronic systems for joystick steering instead--well, okay, that might be a bit paranoid, but if you are prone to worry it might be right in your ballpark.
A pictorial diagram of the hydraulic portion of the system is provided (below), although without some supporting text to further explain, I am not entirely sure what goes on in the two "black boxes" in the drawing, but apparently that's where the magic is. My best guess is the black box at the helm may isolate the helm steering wheel pump when iDock is engaged, and the black box at the stern isolates the two engine lines so they can get different outputs from the iDock hydraulic pump. Here is a sketch of the system:
Evinrude showed the new iDock installed on a SCOUT boat's helm (and probably the same boat as demonstrated in the presentation):
The joystick controller is the only visible component of the system, as the two black boxes are tucked away out of sight and appear to be rather small in comparison to other versions of joystick steering that are implemented with external hydraulic boost pumps. There is an icon on the base of the joystick with the universal ON-OFF meaning, and other than the joystick with rotary knob, that appears to be the only control.The icon illuminates when the iDock is active. Based on some reports from first-hand users who were able to test a prototype of the product several months ago, when the joystick is moved beyond an initial detent in the motion range, the engine RPM will increase to provide more thrust; this may be needed in maneuvers being made in strong winds or with current effects at the dock.