Automatic steering controller for sailing boat - is rapidly disconnected from rudder blade by screw type clutch couplings and allows it to keep pace with wind, and direction

摘要

The automatic steering controller for a sailing boat allows it to maintain its pace relative to the wind, and its direction relative to an automatic compass. The system is readily connected or disconnected by means of screw type clutch couplings. A vane (1) which is sensitive to wind has a counterweight (2) and turns around an axis in a stirrup assembly is attached to a fork (9) at the lower end. A hole (10) in the fork accepts a crank (11) attached to the control shaft (12) for a rudder (16). A weather vane (14) and compass (15) control an electric motor via an electronic controller. This provides control when no wind is available via a clutch screw (Et) on the transmission shaft.