Definition and Function

The servo handle is a key component in the ship's servo system, which mainly plays a role in transmitting power and controlling the rotation angle of the rudder blades. The power generated by the servo is transmitted to the rudder stock through the servo handle, which in turn drives the rudder blades to rotate, enabling the ship to achieve steering operation. Meanwhile, the motion angle and position of the servo handle usually correspond to the angle of the rudder blades, which is an important link in rudder angle feedback and control.

Structural composition

Handle body part:

The handle body of a servo motor is generally made of metal materials, such as steel or cast iron, to ensure sufficient strength and rigidity to transmit the power of the servo motor. The shape of the handle body may be a straight rod or have a certain curvature, and its length and shape are designed based on the relative position of the servo and rudder stock, as well as the structural layout of the ship. At both ends of the handle, there are usually connecting components used to connect with the servo and rudder stock.

Connecting components:

One end is connected to the output shaft of the servo motor, and the connection method can be key connection, spline connection, flange connection, etc. These connection methods can effectively transmit the torque of the servo, ensuring that the servo handle moves synchronously with the rotation of the servo output shaft. The other end is connected to the rudder stock, also using a suitable mechanical connection method, so that the servo handle can transmit power to the rudder stock, thereby driving the rudder blades to rotate.

Angle indicator device (some servo levers have):

Some servo levers are equipped with angle indicator devices to display the rotation angle of the servo lever, indirectly reflecting the angle of the rudder blades. This device can be a simple mechanical pointer type angle meter or an electronic sensor connected to the ship's autopilot control system, providing intuitive rudder angle information to the crew.

working principle

When the servo receives a steering command (which can be a signal from a manual steering wheel or an automatic steering system) and starts working, the output shaft of the servo rotates. One end of the servo handle connected to the output shaft of the servo motor rotates accordingly. As the other end of the servo handle is connected to the rudder stock, the servo handle transmits the power of the servo motor to the rudder stock. The rudder lever drives the rudder blades to rotate in the rudder support of the ship, achieving the turning of the ship. In this process, the rotation angle of the servo handle is proportional to the angle of the rudder blades. The angle indicator device can monitor the angle of the rudder blades in real time, so that the crew can perform precise ship maneuvering.

advantage

Efficient power transmission: The servo handle can effectively transmit the power generated by the servo to the rudder stock, ensuring that the rudder blades can respond quickly and accurately to steering commands. Its sturdy structure and reliable connection ensure the stability and efficiency of power transmission, allowing the ship to change course in a timely manner when needed.

Intuitive rudder angle feedback: For rudder handles with angle indication devices, it can provide crew with intuitive rudder angle information, facilitating monitoring of manual or automatic rudder operations. This helps to improve the accuracy and safety of ship turning, especially in complex waterways or harsh sea conditions.

Disadvantages and countermeasures

Susceptible to wear and fatigue damage: Due to the frequent transmission of power from the steering gear handle during ship turning, its connecting parts and handle body are susceptible to wear and fatigue damage. The response measures include regularly checking the wear of the servo handle, especially the key slots, flange bolts, and other parts of the connecting components. If wear or fatigue cracks are found, they should be replaced or repaired in a timely manner. At the same time, wear-resistant and fatigue resistant materials can be used to make the servo handle, or strengthening treatment can be carried out at the connection part, such as surface quenching, shot blasting, etc.

High requirements for installation accuracy: The installation accuracy of the servo handle directly affects the efficiency of servo power transmission and the accuracy of rudder blade rotation. If the alignment with the servo output shaft or rudder stock is not good during installation, it may cause problems such as uneven power transmission and rudder blade vibration. During the installation process, precise measuring tools and installation equipment are required to ensure that the concentricity and perpendicularity of the servo handle, servo output shaft, and rudder stock meet the requirements.

Application scenarios

Ship servo system: In various types of ship servo systems (including cargo ships, passenger ships, oil tankers, warships, etc.), the servo handle is an indispensable component. It is a bridge connecting the servo and rudder, and is a key link in achieving ship turning operations.