Joystick Systems, Part 1: Integrated Systems
Docking a boat has never been so easy, thanks to recent advancements in electronic integration. Volvo Penta introduced joystick docking more than a decade ago and today, many companies are offering their own versions.
Joysticks can link engines, gearboxes, steering and thrusters (if installed) together to form an intuitive unit that lets you dock simply by using a joystick. The joystick lets a user gently move the boat around on any angle with finesse. A captain can compensate for wind, drift neighboring vessels and fixed structures. In part one of this two-part story, we’ll look at joystick systems offered by engine and propulsion manufacturers.
Volvo Penta
Volvo Penta virtually invented the joystick for recreational boating starting its first system in 2007 and then applied this technology to its twin sterndrive propulsion packages in 2010.
Software in the Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) system transforms the joystick movements into steering angles, gearshifts and throttle positions for intuitive maneuverability at low and high speeds. With Volvo Penta’s system, the throttle and gear sticks must be in neutral to activate the joystick system with the “Docking” button on the base of the unit. This is an important safety feature and means that the joystick will not be accidentally engaged. When more docking power is needed, another button can be pushed that raises engine rpm.
By turning one sterndrive lower unit or pod to port with forward thrust and turning the other to starboard with reverse thrust, a joystick makes the move sideways, varying the sideways thrust based merely on how far the joystick is pushed. Varying angles and rpm can combine sideways thrust with movement forward or back, and simultaneously rotate the boat along its keel.
For Joystick Sterndrive, Volvo Penta developed new software. The concept is the same, but getting a boat to respond predictably to a joystick by using two sterndrives mounted close together abaft the transom is much different than getting an inboard boat to react by using drives tucked underneath, much closer to a boat’s natural pivot point.
Up to six Joystick Docking stations can be installed on a boat. The system is designed to reduce the number of wires and connectors for easy installation. Engine choices have expanded and Volvo Penta now offers the ability to retrofit a joystick in some instances to pods only. Retrofitting is not available for sterndrive refits.
Mercury Marine Joystick Piloting
Mercury Marine offer joystick piloting for sterndrives, Zeus pods, inboards and outboards. Mercury Joystick Piloting Systems (JPS) take the stress out of one of the most stressful parts of boating, all with a gentle nudge of the joystick.
The system is suitable for Axius and MerCruiser and Mercury Diesel applications, boats from 26’4” (8 m) to 45’11” (14 m) and Zeus for larger boats powered by pod drives. Joystick Piloting for outboards is designed for dual, triple or quad installations of Verado outboards.
Joystick piloting systems are compatible with SmartCraft Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS), as well as electronic/hydraulic power steering.
JPS delivers 360 degree directional control. The Skyhook digital anchoring system holds boat in a fixed position regardless of wind or current. Active Trim is the only auto-trimming program that uses GPS and speed. SmartCraft DTS (Digital Throttle & Shift) delivers precise handling and total control. It also seamlessly connects with compatible displays and features automotive-style power steering.
Yamaha Helm Master
Yamaha’s joystick system is called Helm Master. It works similarly to those available for inboard engines. Engine revs will match the request, the movement sensors detect any input and the ECU decides the output and the direction of each engine, independently, to move the boat in any direction.
Beside the joystick, the remote box and the ignition panel include automatic trim assist, an anti-theft system and the ability to control engine and trim angle with the same stick and a speed-sensitive clutch on the wheel.
Twist or apply pressure to the joystick in a given direction and the engines respond with thrust that mirrors the amount of movement you input via the joystick. Intuitive joystick maneuvering allows you to move your boat in forward, reverse, laterally left or right, on a diagonal or to pivot it 360 degrees in place.
This fully integrated boat-control system includes an enhanced binnacle control, a streamlined digital display, push-button start/stop switches, an RFID key fob and a joystick.
Fine-tuning your position while in StayPoint, FishPoint and DriftPoint using just the joystick is now possible. Pattern Shift permits more precise operation below standard in-gear trolling speeds. Boats with earlier Helm Master systems can be updated to include the new features, as well.
The new joystick can work for two- or three-engine installations, provided they are the last generation Yamahas (4.2 V6 225 or 300 hp).
Hamilton Marine Blue Arrow
Blue Arrow is a new generation electronic control system for Hamilton-Jet powered boats. With the intuitive control provided by the MouseBoat maneuvering controller, blue Arrow allows even inexperienced boaters to harness the full maneuvering benefits of waterjets by providing simple control of engine throttle, gearbox and waterjet reverse and steering deflectors.
Unlike other electronic waterjet control systems, Blue Arrow is a complete waterjet and controls package. Blue Arrow incorporates single or twin waterjet units, jet control interfaces, engine throttle and gearbox control interfaces.
Blue Arrow also has safety features including multiple levels of redundancy and an independent smart backup, plus comprehensive diagnostics and alarms. It’s suitable for commercial applications, workboats, military craft and pleasure yachts.
In part two, we’ll take a look at aftermarket offerings that can be configured for almost any engine and propulsion system.