You are far more experienced at specing out boats than I am, but to my knowledge, most jog levers are operating with low amperage/current and the autopilot computer serves as both a solenoid to provide higher amperage that the pump requires, this also will provide the logic to prevent slamming against the end of the ram's travel. There are also hydraulic jog levers that are directly controlling the flow, but this would require a constant pressure pump like a automotive style belt driven ot pto driven pump.
I think you are correct that having an intervening AP is common, and addresses the issue you bring up. TF boats probably use reversing pumps more than continuous pumps with solenoid valves, so your point about switching currents is quite valid and needs to be considered. That said, one of the nice things about simple switching on and off of the pump is the simplicity of it, and not relying on anything other than the pump and switches. As such I think it makes for a great backup, which I think is what the OP was after.
if we're just talking about a "get home" type of system, there are plenty of inexpensive electric linear actuators with built in travel limits. the thing that's the biggest challenge with them is travel speed vs. torque. you get past the voltage drop problem using relays close to the point of use, and a simple joystick at the helm to fire the relays. these actuators are small enough to cover the whole thing with a bellows for protection, or just use quick release pins and a plug set if you want to deploy it.
like these: https://www.progressiveautomations.c...31290949763139
not appropriate for primary steering, but for a back up solution.
another idea i was working on with my last boat was based on a 12 volt hydraulic power pack. this was a primary steering solution for fly by wire. again, you need relays at the power unit to control it, and has been mentioned, cylinders with cushions can be used instead of physical stops and rudder feedback. an adjustable cross port relief will absorb any sudden shock loads or coming to the end of the cylinder stroke.
i was planning on autopilot integration using the on/off output from an autopilot. never finished it though, sold the boat. still have the new power pack and relief valve in the shop somewhere.
the optimus product has been out for a while now, i looked at it but it's still pretty expensive. looks like good stuff though. there's an inboard solution too.
the optimus product has been out for a while now, i looked at it but it's still pretty expensive. looks like good stuff though. there's an inboard solution too.
I didn't check the age of the article and am not surprised that solutions have been out for a while, I just popped (edit) up somehow as a suggested article and I remembered this thread. I also didn' t bother to check all the oosts.
Ofer could simplify the whole challenge and solve it with a 2"x4" and a roll of duct tape.
I didn't check the age of the article and am not surprised that solutions have been out for a while, I just pooped up somehow as a suggested article and I remembered this thread. I also didn' t bother to check all the oosts.
Ofer could simplify the whole challenge and solve it with a 2"x4" and a roll of duct tape.
yes just a cheap converted water strainer for now. took rubber ring from the cap to provide vent.
Hopefully you will have no problems but some seal materials don't mix well with
the oil-based steering fluid, ATF, etc. I do like the simplicity of that system.
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