DIRECT DRIVE ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC SERVO ROTARY VANE STEERING GEAR

Abstract

This paper describes the design and prototype of a new highly reliable rotary vane steering gear of ships which combines the benefits of conventional hydraulic systems and direct drive electrical actuators, namely high torque ratio and modularity. It is referred to as the Direct Drive Electro-Hydraulic (DDEH) servo rotary vane steering gear which results from the fusion of the above mentioned technologies. The DDEH rotary vane steering Gear, including its configuration, controlling principle and specialty, is theoretically analyzed. The mathematical models are built and the simulations of the system are made. The analysis of DDEH rotary vane steering gear is supported by simulation data which explains the extremely high level of performance attained by a prototype of DDEH rotary vane steering gear. Simulation results and its unique advantages show that DDEH rotary vane steering Gear is a prospective equipment for shipping steering which can meet performance requirements.