MXPA96001335A - Steering system assist - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a steering system for a marine vehicle having a pivotal propulsion unit about a directional axis, including a directional rudder operable by an operator and a directional member connected to said propulsion unit, comprising: assisted steering assistance including a cylinder-piston assembly for a hydraulic fluid, having a piston reciprocally mounted, which therefore defines a chamber on either side of said piston to accommodate hydraulic fluid and driven in response to the directional action in said directional rudder; hydraulic fluid source means for the supply of pressurized hydraulic fluid to said cylinder-piston assembly; first valve means disposed in said cylinder-piston assembly biased to a closed position for a position without directional change and adapted to establish fluid communication between said cylinder assembly o-piston and said fluid source means: means for selectively actuating said first valve means to establish said fluid communication once the direction has been actuated, power means operable to effect the power supply to said means of assistance of the direction for the actuation of said directional rudder; ejection means operable to effect the common movement of said directional member in response to the directional action of said directional rudder to rotate said propulsion unit about said directional axis and means to maintain a anti-feedback in case of failure of the fluid source means including second valve means for establishing a fluid communication between said fluid source means and said chamber on either side of said piston and therefore, keeping said chamber substantially full hydraulic fluid

Description

ASSISTED STEERING SYSTEM CAUSAHABEENTE: PERFORMANCE 1 MARINE, INC.

NACIONALTOAD: NORTH AMERICAN ADDRESS: 8780 MASTÍN, YOUR ?? F, OVERLANDPARK, KANSAS, E. U. A.

INVENTOR: JAMES M. HUNDERTMARK NATIONALITY: NORTH AMERICAN ADDRESS: 296 19th STREET, FOND DU LAC, ISCONS1N, E. U. A.

INVENTOR: TTMOTHY. MERTEN NATIONALITY: NORTH AMERICAN ADDRESS: 430A N. MAIN STREET, OSHKOSH, WISCONSIN, E. U. A.

ASSISTED DD3ECTION SYSTEM Field of the Invention This invention relates to an assisted steering system. In its most specific aspect, this invention relates to an assisted steering system, particularly for marine vehicles and using control means to maintain anti-feedback in the event that the power steering system fails.

BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART In a conventional steering system such as outboard motors used in boats, the propulsion unit or motor normally mounted on the yoke of the boat rotates about its axis about a vertical steering axis in response to the action of the direction by the operator at the helm. A typical steering system for a boat having a motor mounted on the yoke comprises a steering cable, such as a push-pull cable, extending between the steering rudder and the propulsion unit so that the steering on the rudder drives the cable to cause the movement of the direction in the propulsion unit around the directional axis. A conventional directional cable is a push-pull cable comprising an internal slidable core with reciprocating movement in a flexible and protective sheath or frame. One end of the cable is operably connected to the rudder and the other end is operably connected to the directional mechanism of the propulsion unit. When the wheel is rotated on the rudder, the cable is driven causing an upward impulse movement of the inner core, thereby causing a directional movement of the propulsion unit. Hydraulically activated directional means can be used in place of the directional cable, where the hydraulic fluid, eg oil, is pumped from the rudder through conduits to piston-cylinder control means in response to the rotation of the rudder in one direction or in another.

The actuation of the control means drives the directional mechanism of the propulsion unit, thereby turning the propulsion unit in a common direction. The teachings of the prior art in regard to steering systems of this type include the following Patents in the United States. 4,592,732; 4,615,290; 4,632,049; 4,568,292; 4,295,833; and 5,074,193; and French Patent 1,133,061. Additionally, the Request for British Patent 2, 159,483 A discloses an assisted steering system for an outboard motor having a hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly and a control valve that is operated by an actuator that includes a push-pull cable to selectively extend and retract the piston post and carry out the steering of the propulsion unit.

The assistance system for power steering is shown in each of the patents of the prior art and in the British application identified above, however, they are mounted on and supported by the propulsion unit. When mounting the power steering system on the propulsion unit is a disadvantage for a number of reasons. First, the mounting position in the propulsion unit must be changed because it is a directional device in conflict with the design of the boat yoke during vertical movement. In order to mount the power steering system to the propulsion unit, special clamps are required for each motor design because the mounting molds vary markedly depending on the design. An example of the assembly on the engine is that discovered in the British Patent Application identified above., wherein, as shown in Figure 7, the assistance unit 120 is mounted on a propulsion unit 10, which is mounted on the yoke 22 of the can. As the propulsion unit 10 rotates about the horizontal axis 42, the assistance unit 120 can come into contact with the yoke of the can, thus limiting its applicability. A second disadvantage is that the power steering system that includes supply and return lines that are under high pressure are subject to sunlight, salt water corrosion and physical abuse due to exposure. Third, such designs as those illustrated in the prior art do not allow the directional strike to be partially absorbed by the directional cable, since no directional stroke stops when passing under the power steering system causing great stress on the directional components of the propulsion unit. Finally, the prior art systems, and in particular a system such as that illustrated in the aforementioned British Patent Application, are designed to continuously supply fluid to the system and not only when directional movement occurs. This constant supply of fluid to the system wastes horsepower from the propulsion motor.

U.S. Patent No. 497,706 discloses an on-line power steering system in which the system is mounted remotely from the rudder disposed adjacent to the propeller. A retractable carriage is moved by a fluid-driven piston and a cable that extends from the piston around the pulleys in the carriage and towards the rudder disc, moves the disc in response to the movement of the piston. Little or no moment of tension created in the rudder is consumed by means of assistance to the steering to reduce therefore the directional effort that is required at the rudder.

The prior art also discloses a directional mechanism for a boat that uses a gear assembly to steer the boat, normally the gear assembly drives a steering member in the engine in response to power at the rudder. This prior art includes Patents in the United States: 1,425,887; 1,852,151; 2,700,358; 2,891,498; 2,939,417; 3,181,491; 3,669,146; 4,416,637; 4,890,683; and 5,018,469. None of these references, however, incorporates an assisted steering mechanism with the gear assembly.

The power steering systems for remotely mounted marine vehicles of the propulsion unit and overcoming the various disadvantages of the prior art are disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,228, 405 and the co-pending U.S. Patent Application 08 / 012,552. , both are assigned to the same assignee as the subject application and are incorporated by reference to the present description. In such steering systems with hydraulic assistance, the torque that originates in the propulsion unit is overcome, thereby restricting the directional forces created by this moment. That is, the assistance means for the power steering reduces the effort in the steering or steering wheel to only the effort required to operate the hydraulic assembly, which is independent of the torque generated by the propulsion unit. The power steering system of the issued patent comprises a push-pull cable such as the power steering member operably connected to a hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly having a valve actuator and a directional ejection member such as a push-pull cable operably connected to the cylinder-piston assembly and to the directional member of the propulsion unit. The steering at the rudder makes a common movement in the directional arm. In the pending application, the directional feed and ejection members comprise a gear transmission.

Power steering for automobiles is common, which basically employs a hydraulic assisted cylinder and piston as shown in the United States Patent.

United 3,121,345 issued to Zeigler et. to the. For Zeigler et. to the. the power steering system discovered in Figure 4 comprises a cylinder 10 'divided by the piston 94 to form the chambers 96 and 101, a rotary valve 84 and a feed arrow 90 connected to the directional arrow. When the rudder is turned, the feed shaft rotates the valve to open the fluid passages and the oil is directed to the appropriate side of the piston chamber and released from the opposite chamber (depending on the direction of rotation), actuating at both the sleeve 40 'and the arrow 54' to rock the arm of the steering rod. The recirculating balines system allows the linear play of the sleeve, which translates into rotary movement of the arrow, a torsion bar 86 keeps the valve in a neutral position and the turns of the rudder deflect the torsion bar to change the relationship between the fluid passages. When in a neutral position or without directional movement, the torsion bar maintains the relative positions of the fluid passages so that the fluid is supplied under equal pressure to both chambers in the cylinder. A) YesWhen the directional action is finished the power steering returns to its central or neutral position, which is a characteristic of the power steering for automobiles because it is essential to have feedback from the road in order to maintain a sense of direction. For example, if the car hits a small obstacle or a front tire is struck, this load or force is immediately fed back to the steering wheel. This load is slightly analogous to the torque created by the propulsion unit of a boat, but for a marine vehicle essentially there should be no feedback to the rudder.

Additional references regarding directional systems for land vehicles include U.S. Patent No. 3,473,324 issued to Mercier. This patent discloses a distributor valve or coil valve 36 and a switch 35. Turning the wheel 12 directs oil to one side of the valve and the oil pressure laterally moves the member 61 (comparable to a piston) that opens the valves. passages for driving the oil into the switch thereby actuating the piston 47 and moving the post 48. The patent in United States No. 4,316,519 issued to Taig discloses an assisted steering unit comprising a bovine valve 142 (see Figures 7 and 8), which is driven in the direction and therefore directs fluid to the cylinder 66 and against the piston 56 or 62 to move the cylinder sleeve and turn the wheels. The Patent in the United States is discovered United Issue 2,094,466 issued to Proctor a hydraulic system comprising a valve operated by cams with check valves to direct the flow of fluid and operate a switch. Finally, U.S. Patent No. 5,289, 893 issued to Yamamoto et. to the. discloses a directional control mechanism comprising a rack 84 and a pinion 92 for driving the side arrow 82 attached to the switch 130 to rotate the wheels and a three way solenoid valve 14 to direct the fluid to either side of the piston 134 on the switch .

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an assisted steering system for a marine vehicle, such as for an outboard motor, having a directional rudder and a propulsion unit rotating about a directional axis. The power steering system comprises an assistance system for hydraulic steering interposed between the propulsion unit and the directional rudder and remotely mounted to the propulsion unit and is operably connected to the rudder to effect power supply to the power steering as response to the directional action in the directional rudder. The operable ejection means is operably connected to the assist means for power steering for an operative movement in response to the action feed. The operable steering means is operatively connected to the ejection means and to the propulsion unit for effecting the directional movement of the propulsion unit about the directional axis. The directional rudder normally includes a directional rudder and is operable by the operator and the assist means for power steering is operated in response to the rotation of the directional rudder.

It will be noted that the power steering system of the invention is adjacent to the rudder and mounted remotely from the propulsion unit. The position of the power steering system, however, is not restricted to the actual physical arrangement but to the operative arrangement. When desired, the power steering system may be separate from the directional rudder. Regardless of the apparent physical arrangement, the power steering system is mounted remotely from the propulsion unit.

In general, the power steering system of the present invention comprises a hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly having a piston reciprocally mounted and fluid passages spaced longitudinally or axially on each side of the piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in the cylinder and valve control to regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid through the power steering.

Preferably, the valve control comprises a rotary valve body having a first and second valves and arranged coaxially with and adjacent one end of the cylinder-piston assembly. A rotating feed member (eg, directional arrow or extension thereof) operable in response to rudder turning is operably connected to the valve control, preferably a switch for selectively opening one valve or the other depending on the direction of rotation. A fluid source supplies the pressurized hydraulic fluid to the cylinder. Thus, the steering at the rudder operates the valve control to regulate the flow of pressurized hydraulic fluid through the cylinder and thereby reciprocatingly moving the piston in one direction or the other depending on the direction of rotation. The effective areas on each side of the piston are not equal. The valve control selectively controls the flow of hydraulic fluid to the cylinder, wherein the resulting reciprocating movement of the piston is determined by the flow of pressurized fluid supplied to it expelled from the chamber having the piston side of larger effective areas.

A first fluid communication establishes communication between the fluid source, the first cylinder chamber, the valve control and the second chamber as a result of rotating in one direction; and a second fluid communication establishes communication between the first cylinder chamber, the valve control and the fluid source as a result of turning in the opposite direction. A connector member is operably connected to the piston and the valve body, including mounted means for a rotary movement as a result of the reciprocal movement of the piston, thereby transmitting rotary motion to the valve body. The ejection is operably connected to the cylinder-piston assembly and to the steering as is the directional member of a propulsion or engine unit.

In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the invention, the connector member includes a screw that extends longitudinally or axially in the cylinder through the piston and is operably connected to one end thereof with the valve body. A nut in concentric relation to the screw and having a recirculating connection with the screw is operably connected to the piston so that it moves linearly or axially in reciprocal movement of the piston. Once the steering is actuated, the valve control is actuated and the pressurized hydraulic fluid is introduced to one chamber or the other of the cylinder-piston assembly (on one side of the piston) depending on the direction of rotation, so as to cause a reciprocal movement of the piston and therefore corresponds to the axial movement of the nut. This axial movement results in the rotating movement of the screw, which in turn turns the valve body. The anti-rotational means inhibits the rotation of the piston. The rotation speed of the valve body corresponds substantially to the rotation speed of the directional arrow, thus maintaining the valve control open. That is, the body of the valve rotates substantially in the same proportion or speed as the power supply of the steering. When the directional action is stopped, the valve body will continue to rotate until the valve control closes, thereby interrupting the oil fluid. The system stops then.

It is preferable to use a piston having differential piston areas, that is, the effective areas are not equal, preferably in a ratio of two to one. This difference allows the use of two valves placed or coated on the valve body instead of four, which is common for conventional systems having an inlet and outlet arranged on each side of the piston.

In a preferred exemplary embodiment, the operable ejection means comprises a hydraulic outlet operably connected to the power steering for an operative movement in response to the action of the power steering. The power steering is operably connected to one end of the hydraulic outlet and responsive to the operational movement of the output to overcome the torque in the propulsion unit relative to the directional axis in response to the actionable movement of the actuatable direction. At its opposite end, the operable direction is operably connected to the directional member of the propulsion unit to effect a common movement of the directional member in response to the actionable movement of the actuatable direction as a result of the directional action of the directional rudder to rotate the control unit. propulsion around the directional axis.

As explained above, the power steering comprises a cylinder-piston hydraulic assembly and a rotary valve body that has a valve control normally influenced to a closed position. A source of hydraulic fluid provides pressurized hydraulic fluid to the cylinder-piston assembly. The source of the fluid comprises an accumulator for supplying hydraulic fluid to the cylinder-piston assembly and a reservoir for accepting hydraulic fluid directed from the cylinder-piston assembly and passing the fluid to the accumulator. Directional movement drives valve control to open fluid communication and provide the supply of pressurized fluid through the cylinder-piston assembly from the fluid source, thus simultaneously supplying ejection to drive the operable direction to effect a common movement of the directional member. The valve control is selectively operated for a right-hand turn or for a left-turn, and this operable movement is predetermined to be substantially equal for rotation in both directions.

In the preferred specimen, the valve control comprises two valves spaced in a rotary valve frame with the valves in a closed position and the directional action opens a valve depending solely on the direction of rotation, thereby directing the flow of the fluid hydraulic pressurized The pressurized hydraulic fluid supplied to the cylinder-piston assembly gives reciprocating movement to the piston and the related means operably connected to the piston drives the ejection to effect a common movement of the directional member.

A suitable actionable direction can be mechanical, electrical or hydraulic or a combination of any pair. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the operable direction is a hydraulic system comprising a cylinder-piston arrangement operably connected to the power steering to effect ejection.

In response to the directional movement in the rudder, the reciprocal movement of the assisted steering piston in turn drives the steering piston. Thus, the directional movement in the rudder effects the common movement in the directional member to rotate the propulsion unit about a vertical directional axis. When desired, the operable direction comprises a mechanical push-pull cable in arrangement comprising a flexible outer sheath and an internal core axially slidable in the sheath. The sheath protects the core and also helps to direct the cable and prevent the cable from winding. If a mechanical cable is used, the cable is operably connected at one end to the power steering and at the opposite end to the propulsion unit. The steering at the rudder drives the cable, more specifically the inner core to effect ejection in the power steering and therefore effect a common movement of the directional member. Also, a plurality of directional cables can be used to provide ejection as for a large motor or where two or more motors are used for the can.

The cylinder-piston assembly and the fluid source are supported by a frame suitable for mounting and because the system is remote from the engine, the system can be mounted in a place where it is protected from exposure to elements and abuse. physical.

Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a schematic representation for showing a directional array using the present invention for use in a marine vehicle.

Figure 2 is a diagrammatic planar view of a canister utilizing the structure of the invention.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the power steering system of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a side elevational view of the power steering structure illustrated in Figure 3.

Figure 5 is a side elevational view similar to Figure 4 but shows movement of the parts for a right-turn direction.

Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view 6-6 of Figure 4 showing in detail the operable connection between the transmission shaft and the switch for the valves.

Figure 7 is a side elevational view, partially transverse, illustrating in detail the structure of the extreme tumbler.

Figure 8 is an end view of the structure of Figure 7.

Figure 9 is an end view of the rotary switch body of the switch.

Figure 10 is a schematic perspective showing the operable connection between the directional arrow, rotary valve body and switch.

Figure 11 is a top view, partially fragmented, of the rotary valve body.

Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view in line 12-12 of Figure 11 showing in detail the valve and the operable connection with the directional arrow and the connector element of the hydraulic cylinder.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS With reference to the drawings, wherein the same reference numerals refer to similar parts throughout several views, an assisted steering system of the present invention as shown in FIGS. a boat. In accordance with the present invention, the power steering system includes means for assisting the power steering, indicated generally by the number 10, operably interposed between the directional rudder 12 and the propulsion unit 14 and mounted remotely from the propulsion unit. It should be understood that the means of assisting the power steering do not need to be physically located between the rudder and the propulsion unit, but that the means of assisting the power steering be in line in completing the actuatable steering between the rudder and the steering. propulsion unit.

Preferably, the assisting means for the power steering 10 are mounted on or near the rudder. As shown, the directional rudder 12 is positioned on or near the bow of the boat hull 16 and normally includes a steering wheel 18 appropriately mounted on the panel 20 the wheel 18 is fixed to the steering wheel 22 by a rope connection 23 which rotates as a result of the rotation of the wheel. The arrow 22 extends from the steering wheel through the mounting panel 20 and is operatively connected with the power steering 10, as described in detail below. It should be understood that where desired the directional arrow extending from the steering wheel may comprise a connecting arrow and / or a matrix arrow or the like, which is conventional in the art.

In the exemplary illustrated as shown in greater detail in Figures 3-5 the power steering 10 comprises a frame for the cylinder, indicated generally with the number 24, having opposite end walls 26 and 28, each with openings 27 and 29 centrally arranged, respectively, and a transverse internal wall 30 provided with a centrally disposed aperture 32. The transverse internal wall 30 and the end wall 26 cooperate with the cylinder 24 to define a first cylinder-piston hydraulic assembly generally indicated with the number 33 which includes a reciprocating piston 34 for reciprocal movement in the cylinder 33. It will be noted that the effective areas for the piston 34 are not same. The annular ram post 36, which has a closed end 38, is arranged concentrically and arranged coaxially along the longitudinal axis of the cylinder 33 and extends longitudinally from the piston head, where it is fixed or secured, through the opening 32 of the transverse annular wall 30 and opening 29 in the end wall 28 and slidingly retained by these walls. The cylindrical frame 40, which is generally mounted coaxially with the cylindrical frame 24, accommodates or receives the valve 42 and extends outwardly, the annular flank 43 joins the cylindrical frame 40 with the cylindrical frame 24. The valve 42 is operably connected in one end to the directional arrow 22 and at the end opposite the hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 33 for controlling the supply of pressurized hydraulic fluid, eg, oil, to the cylinder assembly, as explained below in greater detail. A source of fluid 43 is separated from and in fluid communication with said hydraulic assembly by hydraulic hoses 44 (see Figure 1) which are flexible and reinforced with steel to withstand the relative high pressures and said hoses are well known in the art and are available commercially The fluid source typically includes a tank or container capable of holding the hydraulic fluid, for example, oil and a pump operated by a motor (not specifically illustrated) as disclosed in FIG.

Patent in the United States 5,228,405 and in the United States Patent Application 08 / 012,552, both incorporated herein by reference and assigned to the same assignee as the application. The resulting connection comprises the directional feed and suitable ejection together with the interposed power steering 10, operates in conjunction with and by the action of the flywheel 18 to effect changes of direction in the propulsion unit. Thus, when the cylinder-piston hydraulic assembly 33 is actuated in response to directional movement in the rudder, the pressurized hydraulic fluid, (eg, pressurized oil) flows through the hydraulic assembly 33 supplied from the fluid source 43, as described. in detail forward. The torque of the propulsion unit 14 is exceeded by the power steering 10 thereby reducing the effort on the flywheel to only the effort required to operate the hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 33 which is independent of the torque generated by the propulsion unit.

The ejection, generally indicated as 45 is operably connected to the hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 33 and the directional member 46 of the propulsion unit 14. It will be observed in the illustrated construction the cylinder frame 24 as a unitary structure also contains the ejection 45, but it should be understood, however, that the expulsion may be a separate unit.

The ejection in the exemplary illustrated comprises a second hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 48 defined by the end wall 28 and the transverse annular wall 30 and includes a reciprocating piston 50. The ram post 36, slidably in the opening 32 of the transverse wall 30 and in the opening 29 of the end wall 28, the piston 50 extends and is fixed thereto. In this way, the end of the directional arrow 22 extends to the valve 42 and is operably connected thereto for an operative movement in response to the rotation of the flywheel. The rotation of the flywheel 18 in one direction or in the other drives the valve 42, which is operatively connected to the first hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 33 and provides power steering in response to the action of the valve.

It will be noted that this rudder feed transfers the power to the power steering. The reciprocal movement of the piston 34 in turn reciprocates the piston 50 thereby driving the second hydraulic ejection cylinder 45 to effect the action of the directional member 46 to provide directional movement of the propulsion unit 14 as explained below in more detail.

The valve 42 comprises the frame 40 for accommodating or guarding the body of the rotatable valve 52 mounted for an axial rotation and a valve control 54 (illustrated in detail in Figures 4,5,11 and 12) the frame 40 is closed in an end by an end drum 56 having a centrally disposed axial space 58 for accommodating the arrow 22 extending from the flywheel 18 through the space 58 and to the valve body 52 for an operable connection to the valve control 54. As best illustrated in Figures 4,5 and 8 the end drum 56 has an external rope for a rope coupling with the frame of the valve 40 with internal rope. The directional arrow 22 coupled by ropes at one end 23 to the flywheel 18, extends through the opening 58 centrally disposed of the end drum 56 and is mounted with free rotation so that the rotation of the flywheel rotates the directional arrow without rotating the extreme drum. The nut or ring 60, which has internal rope, is screwed by the rope to the outer rope drum and in the assembly (see Figure 4) the nut comes into contact with the annular marginal edge of the frame 40 to secure the assembly. The face of the tumbler 56 next to the valve is held at 62 to accommodate or receive an operable connection with the valve body 52, as explained below in detail. The opposite end of the directional arrow 22 opposite its cord end 23 ends with an enlarged annular section 64 of larger diameter and is provided with a cylindrical space or cavity open at its ends 66. It will be noted that the inner wall of the rest 62 and the outer wall of the cavity 66 define an opening 68 as best illustrated in Figures 7 and 8. The opposing transverse pits in the annular section 64 accommodate or receive the needle 70 extending transversely through the side wall of the section. annular within the aperture 68 and the marginal edges of the needle are slightly distanced from the inner surface of the rest 62 so that, in the assembly, the rotation of the directional arrow 22 rotates the needle 70, as explained below in more detail. (See Figure 6,7,8 and 9).

It should be understood that when necessary or desirable, the structure of this invention is provided with appropriate sealing gaskets and bearings (not shown) as in the pistons for the first and second cylinder-piston assemblies to prevent leaks.

With reference now in particular to figures 6, 9, 11 and 12, the body of the rotary valve 52 of cylindrical configuration, arranged concentrically in the cylindrical frame 40 is provided with axially projecting annular brakes 72 depending laterally on the planar surface 74. The annular contour of the brakes 72, which is substantially concentric with the body of the cylindrical valve, forms the contour of the opening 68 so that it fits into that rest when, once in the assembly, the marginal edges of the brake almost contacting the planar transverse surface of the rest 62. The body of the rotary valve 52 is provided with a longitudinal space 76 for accommodating the switch 78, which is arranged concentrically and mounted coaxially with respect to the valve body 52 and the brake 72. In a preferred specimen as shown in Figure 10, switch 78 is provided with separate grounds 80 and 82 and the interru ptor ends with an angular flank 83 having an outwardly projecting transmission protrusion 84 which is bifurcated or open and positioned for coupling with the needle 70 thereby operably connecting the directional date 22 with the body of the rotary valve 52 of the valve 42. It will be noted that because the directional arrow 22 and the body of the rotary valve 52 are operably connected, the rotary movement of the arrow as a result of turns in the rudder causes the valve body to rotate in the same direction so, once in the assembly, the needle 70 is engaged by the open section of the protrusion 84 and the rotation of the directional arrow in any direction depending on the direction of the turns the switch 78 rotates for a distance play between the neutral position at a maximum distance of "xx" when the needle 70 engages the brake 72 (see Figure 6) plus the game distance will change depending on the rotational speed of the rudder.

As illustrated more clearly in Figures 4,5,11 and 12 the valve control 54 includes first and second ball check valves 86 and 88, respectively, disposed in the valve body 52 and essentially on opposite sides of the shaft. Longitudinal of the valve body. The body of the rotary valve 52 being concentric with the cylindrical frame 40 cooperates to define an annular channel 90 which is in fluid communication with the fluid passage 92 and similarly defines the annular channel 94 which is in fluid communication with the fluid passageway. 96. The first check valve 86 controls the flow of the pressurized hydraulic fluid supplied from the fluid source 43 through the first fluid communication (described below) including an annular channel 90 (see Figures 4 and 5) and a passage of fluid 92 to the first cylinder-piston assembly 33; and a second check valve 88 controls the flow of pressurized hydraulic fluid from the first cylinder-piston assembly 33 through the second fluid communication (described below) including an annular channel 94 (see Figures 4 and 5) and fluid passage 96. In this way, the flow of hydraulic fluid, for example, oil is essentially unidirectional only. As shown in the illustrated construction and is best admired in Figures 1 and 12, the first and second ballast check valves 86 and 88 have check balls 87 and 89, respectively and when there is no change in direction, each Balinese check valve is maintained in a closed position by appropriate means of influence 98, such as a flat and fixed spring with a screw or rim 99, which holds each pellet against a cooperative site to prevent the passage of oil through of the balines verification valve. In this position, the valve control 54 is closed and remains closed. Ballast interrupting needles 100 and 102 are placed on tie rods 80 and 82, respectively, of the switch 78 and the opposite marginal edge or term of each switch needle is slightly separated from the verification pellet or can barely touch it, when there is no change in direction. As a result of the directional movement to the left or to the right, one needle or the other, depending on the direction of the turn, comes into contact with a checker to set the pellet in motion. That is, as the pellet switch 78 rotatably moves to the left or to the right, an actuating needle engages with an actuator pellet to move the actuator pellet from its site, thereby allowing the flow of the pressurized hydraulic fluid, for example. , oil through the assembly of valves and the first cylinder-piston assembly, as explained below. In this way, it will be observed in the Figures 4, 5, 11 and 12 that when the switch pellet 78 moves to the left for a left turn, the needle 100 moves to engage with the check ball 87, thereby opening the balloon check valve 86 On the contrary, when the balin switch 78 moves to the right as in a right turn, the needle 102 moves to mate with the checker 89, thereby opening the balloon check valve 88.

As explained above, the first hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 33 includes a frame for the cylinder 24 and a reciprocating piston 34 slidably mounted in the space of the cylinder 33. The ram post 36 being substantially concentric with the cylinder frame 24 is extends longitudinally from the piston head 34 and through the transverse internal wall 30 and the end wall 28. It will be noted that the piston 34 divides the first cylinder assembly 33 into a first chamber 104 defined by the end wall 26 and the head of the piston 34. piston 34 and a second chamber 106 defined by the piston head 34 and the transverse annular wall 30. One or more anti-rotation needles 108 and 110 extend longitudinally from the end wall 26 and are attached thereto by a screw connection with rope and are slidably insertable in the piston 34, thus preventing the piston from rotating but allowing it to reciprocate in the cylinder 33. Also, the ram post 35 extending axially from the piston head 34 occupies a portion of the second chamber 106, which therefore reduces the area of the piston in that chamber relative to the area of the piston in the piston. chamber 104. Thus, the effective area of the piston in chamber 104 is greater than the effective area of the piston in chamber 106. In a preferred example of the invention, the piston area in chamber 106 is one half of the piston area in the chamber 104 and consequently the oil pressure in the chamber 104 is a half of the pressure in the chamber 106. The resulting reciprocal movement of the piston is determined by the flow of pressurized fluid supplied to or expelled from the chamber 104, which is the effective area of the largest piston. Therefore, due to the directional action, when the pressure in the chamber 104 is taken greater than half the pressure in the chamber 106, the piston 34 will move to the right, as seen in Figures 4 and (the direction of the large arrow illustrated in Figure 5).

As explained above, the valve 42 controls the supply of pressurized hydraulic fluid, for example, oil from the fluid source 43 and the first hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 33, thereby establishing a first fluid communication. Thus, the passage of fluid 112 leading through the frame of the cylinder 24 and the frame of the valve 40 establishes a fluid communication between the source of the fluid 43 and the annular channel 90 in the frame 40. It will be noted that the pressurized fluid of the source of the fluid 43 enters the fluid passage 112 through the hydraulic hose 44 (see Figure 4, where the arrows show the flow direction), passes into the channel 90 and, after the action of the valve check 86 through passage 92 and within fluid communication with first chamber 104 of cylinder-piston assembly 33. When this occurs due to the directional action, piston 34 moves to the right, as illustrated in the drawings and the fluid in the second chamber 106 will be directed outward where it will enter the passage 112, thereby completing the first fluid communication between the source of the fluid 43 and the cylinder 33.

Similarly, the valve 42 controls the supply of pressurized hydraulic fluid from the first hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 33 and returned to the fluid source 43, thereby establishing a second fluid communication. The action of the check valve 88 allows the pressurized hydraulic fluid to flow out of the first chamber 104 to the fluid source 43 and from the fluid source into the second chamber 106 of the cylinder-piston hydraulic assembly., therefore forcing the piston 34 to move to the left as seen in Figures 4 or 5. As illustrated, the chamber 104 is in fluid communication with the annular channel 94 via the passage 114 in the valve frame 40 and channel 94 is open for fluid communication with passage 96 due to the action of check valve 88, which leads to the return hose, thereby establishing a second fluid communication. When this occupies after the directional action, the piston 34 moves to the left as illustrated in the drawings.

It will therefore be noted that in establishing the first and second fluid communications allows the passage of pressurized hydraulic fluid to effect the action of the power steering. Thus, the valve 42 is normally influenced to a neutral position or without change of direction. The directional action for a right turn turns the switch 78 causing the check valve 86 to open. The pressurized hydraulic fluid then passes from the source of the fluid 43 and hose 44 to the first fluid communication comprising the passage 112, the annular channel 90, the passage 92 and within the first chamber 104. The hydraulic pressure is applied against the piston 34 causing the piston to move to the right (the direction of 1 large arrow in Figure 5) and the hydraulic fluid leaves the second chamber 106 and flows into the line 112. When the directional action is in the opposite direction, the check valve 88 is open. The pressurized hydraulic fluid then passes from the fluid source 43 and the hose 44 to the second chamber 106 and out of the first chamber 104 by the second fluid communication including the passage 114, the annular channel 94 and the passage 96 and the hose return 44. Piston 34 is forced to move to the left.

As stated above, a connecting element, indicated generally with the number 116, is operably connected with the piston 34 of the first hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 33 and the rotary valve body 52 so as to be able to transmit the rotational movement to the valve body. in response to the reciprocal movement of the piston, which occurs with the directional action. Thus, the directional action will operate the switch 78 to keep the appropriate check valve open (either the check valve 86 or 88 depending on the direction of the turn) and as a consequence the system continues to move and therefore assists in the direction. When the steering stops, the valve stem 52 rotates until the valve closes. In the illustrated example, the connector element 116 comprises a screw 118 and a concentrically attached nut 120 and are operably connected by the ballast train 122. A screw and nut connection of this type or general structure is conventional and well understood in the art. . According to the present invention, the screw 118, having external helical grooves 123, is axially or longitudinally disposed in the cylinder 33 and extends from the rotary valve body 52 where it is fixed by a rope connection 124, to through the piston 34 and coaxially with the ram post 36 and spaced from the proximal end 38. The nut 120, having internal helical grooves that complement the external notches of the screw 118 to accommodate or receive the pellet train 122, is axially dependent. of the piston 34 and is fixed thereto by means of a rope connection 126 and is arranged concentrically with the screw. The connection between the screw 118 and the nut 120 is made through the ballast train 122 recirculated in the complementary helical grooves by the return pipe 128. Thus, in accordance with the structure described above and illustrated, it will be observed that the reciprocal movement of the piston 34 will cause the nut 120 to travel linearly or axially on the screw 118. This axial movement of the turkish is translated into rotational movement of the screw by reason of the helical connection. As a consequence, the spindle of the rotary valve 52 being fixed to the screw is forced to rotate in the direction corresponding to the direction of the thyme, which will be at the same rotational speed of the directional arrow 22.

The rotational speed of the valve body and the screw is the same. When the operator stops the rotation of the wheel, the valve body rotates until the check valve closes, which is essentially simultaneous with stopping the wheel turning and therefore stops the flow of hydraulic fluid and this way the system stops.

With reference again to Figures 4 and 5, a hydraulic ejection 45 located in the cylinder 24 is illustrated and although it is illustrated as a unit integrally designed, it should be understood that the ejection can be a separate unit operably connected to the address assisted by special clamps and hydraulic or mechanical connections. In the preferred example as illustrated, the ejection, placed or arranged between the power steering 10 and the directional member 46 and arranged in the frame 24, comprises the second hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly 48 defined by the transverse internal wall 30 and the wall end 28. As explained above, the ram post 36 projects axially from the piston 24 through the openings 32 and 29 in the walls 30 and 28, respectively. The piston 50, fixed to the ram post or formed integrally thereto and mounted for a reciprocal movement, divides the second cylinder assembly 48 into annular chambers 130 and 132. The container or tank 134, which contains the hydraulic fluid (eg oil ), is integrally formed with the frame 24 and disposed outwardly of the end wall 28. The container 134 may be provided with a drums with screw cord 135, as shown, to provide easy access in case there is a need to replenish any loss of fluid.

The cylinder frame 24 is provided with a fluid passage 136 that opens the container 134 to provide fluid communication between the container and the second cylinder-piston assembly 48. The passage 136 branches at 138 to provide fluid communication with the chamber 130 and at 140 to provide fluid communication with the chamber 132. Valves suitable for controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid from the container to the cylinder 48 comprise the check valves 142 and 144 which are normally inclined to a closed or neutral position. Said appropriate check valves can be for example check valves with balls, rocker check valves, or the like, to supply hydraulic fluid to one chamber and drain the fluid from the other.

The second cylinder-piston assembly 48 is also in fluid communication with the directional member 46 by hydraulic hoses 146 and 148. In this way, the passage 150 in the cylinder frame 26 opens to the chamber 30 and at the end opposite the hydraulic hose 146 and similarly the passage 152 opens to the chamber 132 and at the opposite end to the hydraulic hose 148. Due to the turns of the rudder, the reciprocally mounted piston 34 moves to the right as shown in the figure 5 which simultaneously moves the piston 50 to the right. The hydraulic fluid (oil) is conducted from the annular channel 132 through the passageway 152 and the hydraulic hose 148 and into the hydraulic cylinder 160 of the directional member 46. The directional members for outboard motors are well known and are commercially available and HE

Claims (25)

disclose in U.S. Patents 4,373,920 and 4,773,882, which disclose a hydraulic means for rotating the propulsion unit about a directional axis. Thus, the oil entering the cylinder 160 and against the piston 162 moves the piston and the post 164 to the left which, mounted with special clamps (not shown), provides a directional action to the propulsion unit. The reciprocal movement of the piston 162 drives the oil out of the opposite side of the cylinder 160, through the hydraulic hose 146 and the oil is then drawn into the annular chamber 130. The direction in the rudder in the opposite direction will effect the movement of the piston 50 and in turn the piston 162, thereby rotating the propulsion unit in the opposite direction. In the event that there is a loss of oil in any of the chambers 130 or 132, the oil will be sucked from the container 134, through the fluid passage 136 and the check valves 142 or 144 and into the chamber appropriate depending on the direction of the turn. The tamborete 135 is provided to access the container to replenish it in case of any oil leakage.
1. The claims are: 1. A power steering system comprising: (a) A rotating feed member; (b) A hydraulic cylinder having a piston reciprocally mounted and fluid passages longitudinally spaced on either side of said piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in said cylinder, the effective areas of said piston being unequal; (c) A fluid source for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to said cylinder; (d) Valve control operably connected to said feed member and with a rotary valve body, said valve control adapted to selectively control the flow of hydraulic fluid to said cylinder wherein the reciprocal movement resulting from said piston is determined by the pressurized fluid flow supplied to / or ejected from the chamber having the piston side with greatest effective area; and (f) Expulsion operably connected to said piston.
2. 2. An assisted steering system according to claim 1 further comprising a screw extending longitudinally in said cylinder out of said piston and operably connected at one end thereof to said valve body; a nut in concentric relation with said screw and having a recirculating connection with said screw and operably connected to said piston so as to move axially on the reciprocal movement of said piston, wherein the axial movement of said nut translates into rotational movement of said screw to rotate said valve body.
3. 3. A power steering system comprising: (a) A rotating power member; (b) A hydraulic cylinder having a piston reciprocally mounted and fluid passages longitudinally spaced on either side of said piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in said cylinder; (c) Valve control operably connected to said feed member and including a rotary valve body operably connected to said piston and first and second valves; (d) A fluid source for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to said cylinder; (e) first fluid communication between said fluid source, said first chamber, said first valves and said second chamber after rotation of said supply member in one direction; and second fluid communication between said first chamber, said second valve, said fluid source and said second chamber after rotation of said feeding member in the opposite direction; and (f) Expulsion operably connected to said piston.
4. 4. An assisted steering system according to claim 3 wherein said rotary valve body has a first and second valves; said hydraulic cylinder has fluid passages longitudinally spaced on either side of said piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in said cylinder; first fluid communication between said source of fluid, said first chamber, said first valve, and said second chamber after the action of said feeding member to rotate in one direction; and second fluid communication between said first chamber, said second valve and said fluid source after the action of said feeding member in the opposite direction.
5. 5. An assisted steering system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein said cylinder being the first cylinder includes an end wall disposed inwardly having an opening, a ram post extending coaxially in said cylinder from said piston through said opening and mounted for a reciprocal movement after the reciprocating movement of said piston and operable ejection comprising a second hydraulic cylinder connected to said ram post wherein said second cylinder is driven in response to the selective flow of fluid hydraulic did said first cylinder.
6. 6. A power steering system comprising: (a) A rotating power member; (b) A hydraulic cylinder having a reciprocally mounted piston and fluid passages longitudinally spaced on each side of said piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in said cylinder, the effective areas of each side of said piston being unequal; (c) Expulsion operably connected to said piston. (d) A fluid source for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to said cylinder; (d) valve control operably connected to said feed member and having a rotary valve body, said valve control adapted to selectively control the flow of hydraulic fluid to said cylinder, wherein the reciprocal movement of said piston is determined by the flow of pressurized fluid supplied to or expelled from the chamber having the piston side with the largest effective area; and (e) a connector operably connected to said piston and said valve body and mounted for a rotational movement as a result of the reciprocal movement of said piston to rotate said valve body.
7. 7. A power steering system comprising: (a) A rotating power member; (b) A hydraulic cylinder having a piston reciprocally mounted and fluid passages longitudinally spaced on either side of said piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in said cylinder; (c) Expulsion operably connected to said piston. (d) A fluid source for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to said cylinder; (e) valve control operably connected to said feed member and having a rotary valve body, said valve control includes first and second valves; (f) a connector operably connected to said piston and said valve body and mounted for a rotational movement as a result of the reciprocal movement of said piston to rotate said valve body; (g) first fluid communication between said fluid source, said first chamber, said first valves and said second chamber after rotation of said feeding member in one direction; and second fluid communication between said first chamber, said second valve, said fluid source and said second chamber after rotation of said feeding member in the opposite direction.
8. 8. An assisted steering system in accordance with claims 6 and 7 wherein said connector comprises a screw extending longitudinally in said cylinder through said piston and is operably connected to one end thereof with said valve body and a nut in concentric relation with said screw and having a recirculating connection conformed to said screw. screw and operably connected to said piston to move axially in reciprocal movement of said piston, wherein the axial movement of said nut translates into rotational movement of said screw to rotate said valve body.
9. 9. An assisted steering system according to claim 8 wherein said cylinder is a first cylinder that includes an internal wall disposed inwardly having an opening, a ram post extending coaxially in said first cylinder from said piston through said piston. said opening and mounted for a reciprocal movement after the reciprocating movement of said operable piston and ejection comprising a second hydraulic cylinder operably connected to said ram post wherein said second cylinder is driven in response to the selective flow of hydraulic fluid to said first cylinder .
10. 10. An adaptive power steering system for a marine vehicle having a propulsion unit with movement on a directional axis, directional operable to apply torque to said propulsion unit to effect a directional movement thereof around said directional axis and which includes a directional rudder operable by an operator and a directional member connected to said propulsion unit, said directional rudder includes a feed member operable as a result of the directional action; said system comprises: (a) a hydraulic cylinder having a reciprocating piston; (b) source of the fluid to supply the hydraulic fluid to said cylinder; (c) rotary valve control adapted to establish fluid communication between said cylinder and said fluid source and operably connected to said supply member to provide operable power to said cylinder; (d) operable ejection operably connected to said piston for an operative movement in response to said feeding action and operably connected to said operable direction, thereby driving the operable direction in response to the reciprocal movement of said piston to exceed the torque in said propulsion unit relative to said directional axis in response to the action of said operable direction, said operable direction provides operable ejection to effect the common movement of said directional member in response to said directional action to rotate said propulsion unit about the axis directional.
11. 11. An assisted steering system according to claim 10 wherein said hydraulic cylinder includes passages spaced longitudinally on each side of said piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in said cylinder, the effective areas of each side of said piston are unequal; and said valve control operably connected to said feed member and having a rotary valve body, said valve control adapted to selectively control the flow of hydraulic fluid to each cylinder, wherein the reciprocal movement resulting from said piston is determined by the flow of pressurized fluid supplied to or expelled from the chamber with the piston side of the largest effective area.
12. 12. An assisted steering system according to claim 10 or 11 wherein said hydraulic cylinder includes passages spaced longitudinally on either side of said piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in said cylinder; said valve control includes a rotary valve body having first and second valves; first fluid commotion between said fluid source, said first chamber, said first valve and said second chamber after the action of said feeding member to rotate in one direction; and second fluid communication between said first chamber, said second valve and said fluid source after the action of said feeding member to rotate in the opposite direction.
13. 13. An assisted steering system according to claim 10 or 11 wherein said cylinder includes an end wall disposed inwardly having an opening, a ram post extending coaxially in said cylinder from said piston through said opening and connected to said ejection, said ram post mounted for a reciprocal movement as a result of the reciprocal movement of said piston.
14. 14. An assisted steering system according to claim 12 wherein said hydraulic cylinder includes an end wall disposed inwardly having an opening, a ram post extending coaxially in said cylinder from said piston through said opening and connected to said cylinder. said ejection, said ram post mounted for a reciprocal movement as a result of the reciprocal movement of said piston.
15. 15. An assisted steering system according to any of claims 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 further comprising a switch operably connected to said feed member for selectively actuating said valve control to control the flow of hydraulic fluid supplied from said fluid source; said switch being arranged to rotate along an axis substantially coinciding with the longitudinal axis of said rotary valve body and means for limiting the distance of the rotary play in both directions of said switch to actuate said valve control.
16. 16. An assisted steering system according to any of claims 1, 2, 4 - 11 wherein the piston area of the first chamber is one half of the piston area of the second chamber.
17. 17. An assisted steering system according to claim 12 wherein the piston area of the first chamber is one half of the piston area of the second chamber.
18. 18. An assisted steering system according to claim 13 wherein the piston area of the first chamber is one half of the piston area of the second chamber.
19. 19. An assisted steering system according to claim 11 wherein said ejection comprises a second hydraulic cylinder, said ram post extends coaxially to said second hydraulic cylinder and is operably connected thereto, whereby the reciprocal movement of said hydraulic ram actuates said second cylinder.
20. 20. An assisted steering system, comprising: (a) a rotating feed member; (b) a first hydraulic cylinder having a first piston reciprocally mounted and fluid passages longitudinally spaced on either side of said piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in said cylinder, the effective area of each side of the piston being unequal; (c) a second hydraulic cylinder having a second piston reciprocally mounted and disposed at one end and coaxially aligned with said first cylinder; (d) a partially transverse internal wall separating said first and second cylinders; (e) a ram post coaxially aligned in said first and second cylinders extending from said first cylinder through the wall and fixed to said second piston, said ram post having a closed end disposed outside said second cylinder; (f) source of fluid for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to said first cylinder; (g) valve control having a rotary valve body disposed adjacent the opposite end of said first cylinder and having a first and second valves operably connected to said switch member, said valve control adapted to selectively control the flow of hydraulic fluid to said cylinder, whereby the reciprocal movement resulting from said piston is determined by the flow of pressurized fluid supplied to or expelled from the chamber having the piston side with the greatest effective area; (h) a connector operably connected to said first piston and said valve body and mounted for a rotational movement after reciprocal movement of said first piston to rotate said valve body to effect reciprocal movement of said first piston, thereby effecting a reciprocal movement corresponding to said second piston; e (i) operable direction operably connected to said second cylinder.
21. 21. An assisted steering system according to claim 20 further comprising a fluid communication between said fluid source, said first chamber, said valve control and said second chamber after the rotation of said feeding member in a direction; and second fluid communication between said first chamber, said valve control and said second chamber after rotation of said feeding member in the opposite direction.
22. 22. An assisted steering system according to claim 20 or 21 further comprising a switch operably connected to said supply member for controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid supplied from said fluid source and for selectively actuating said first and second valves to establish said fluid communication after the action of said feeding member, whereby the hydraulic fluid is supplied from said fluid source to said first cylinder.
23. 23. An assisted steering system according to claim 22 wherein said first and second valves are positioned spaced along the longitudinal axis of said valve body, means for influencing said first and second valves to a closed position, without changes in the said first fluid communication includes said first valve when actuated to an open position and said second fluid communication includes said second valve when it is operated to an open position.
24. 24. An assisted steering system according to claim 17, 18 or 19 wherein said connector comprises a screw extending longitudinally in said cylinder through said piston and operably connected at one end thereof with said valve body and a nut. in concentric relation with said screw and having a recirculating connection with said screw and operably connected to said piston to move axially on reciprocal movement of said piston, whereby the axial movement of said nut translates into a rotational movement of said screw for turn said valve body.
25. 25. A power steering system adaptable to a marine vehicle having a steering member connected to a propulsion unit, comprising: (a) a rotating feed member; (b) a cylindrical frame having a first hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly, said cylindrical frame having first and second end walls and a transverse wall disposed internally with an opening therein; (c) an annular ram post connected to said first piston and extending through said transverse wall and spaced from said second end wall; (f) Fluid passages for said first hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly longitudinally spaced on either side of said piston to form a first chamber and a second chamber in said first cylinder-piston assembly; (e) rotary valve body connected to said first cylinder-piston assembly adjacent said first end wall and having valve control operably connected to said supply member and said valve body operably connected to said supply member and said valve body; valve operably connected to said first piston; (f) a second hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly defined by said transverse wall and said second end wall and operably connected to said directional member, said second cylinder having longitudinally spaced fluid passages on each side of said second piston to establish fluid commotion with said directional member, whereby reciprocal movement of said first piston reciprocally moves said second piston to effect the movement of said directional member to direct said propulsion unit therethrough. ABSTRACT OF THE INVENTION An assisted steering system, especially adaptable for a marine vehicle having a propulsion unit with movement about a directional axis and including a directional member to effect the directional movement thereof around the directional axis and a directional rudder operable by an operator, comprising a hydraulic cylinder, a rotary valve body arranged adjacent to the hydraulic cylinder and having a valve control adapted to establish fluid communication between the hydraulic cylinder and a fluid source to supply hydraulic fluid to the cylinder. A screw, operably connected to the valve body and a nut, having a recirculating connection with the screw, is operably connected to the piston to move axially on reciprocal movement of the piston. The pressurized hydraulic fluid is supplied to the cylinder and to either side of the piston to effect a reciprocal movement of the piston, whereby the axial movement of the nut results in the rotary movement of the screw to rotate the valve body. An ejector member is operably connected to the piston and the directional member. IN WITNESS WHEREOVER, I sign the above description and claims, on behalf of Performance 1 Marine, Inc. on the 09th day of the month of April 1996. P.P. PERFORMANCE 1 MARINE, INC. SrIER.RA