Within Reach and Sight
Properly locating electronics within the operator's arm length and easy visibility.
Every control should be within the operator's reach without having to shift his position. Nothing should block his clear view of the environment. Instruments should be visible by simply shifting the eyes, not requiring the operator to turn his head. This installation by Electric Marine meets all of these design objectives. It also meets ABYC Standard H-1, Field of Vision from the Helm Position.
On this 26' North River, note the steering compass moved to the right so the operator does not have to look at it through the spokes of the wheel. Autopilot controls are just to the right and below the steering compass. The Raymarine E120 multifunction display and VHF are mounted overhead where they are just above the operator's normal view of the environment. The aluminum roof structure above the headliner had to be reinforced with a 24" x 36" - 3/8" thick aluminum plate to distribute the weight of the multifunction display.
Several controls have been relocated from where the manufacturer installed them to optimize visibility and accessibility. The trim tab switches, now just to the right of the wheel, were originally installed where the autopilot controls are now. The horn button is now in the lower right corner of the instrument panel where you can find it without looking.
A reversing relay was added to the anchor windlass. The anchor can be lowered as well as raised electrically. The windlass can be operated from a switch just above the engine control levers, but foot switches have been added at the bow. Usually operators find that the anchor and rode need a little personal tending as they are set and retrieved.
Note that the shelf above the wheel is almost completely available for the operator's personal gear. A 12 volt outlet was added to the panel's lower right corner so cellphones and handheld radios can be recharged on the dash shelf, it's mate out of view to the left or from within the v-berth. Cords will not obstruct instruments in any condition. The autopilot hydraulic pump was located in a rear compartment to avoid cluttering the space under the dash. The sounder and autopilot computers are located on opposite sides of the bulkhead just below the dash, where they are readily available for inspection or service. Switches on the Blue Sea "weather deck" panel on the left end of the console are recessed so they will not be inadvertently toggled as someone brushes past to enter the v-berth. Functions that are rarely accessed during a trip are on this switch panel. Lights and pumps are on a similar panel below the wheel.
Thanks to Norm Jennings of Tustin, CA, for the opportunity to craft this installation.