Over engineering idea (Joystick controlled rudder system for Kayak)

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1

Hey all, new here and looking for guidance. I am NOVICE to robotics and have talked with a few “actuator” companies and cannot seem to find a “simple” way to achieve what I am after.

I am Looking to build a Joystick operated rudder system for a kayak. The 2 parts I would like most are;

  1. Progressive movement. Like an accelerator pedal almost. If I apply 20% movement to the joystick, I want 20% movement in the rudder and it hold as long as I hold. Move 83% on control I get 83% movement.

  2. A central point. When there is no input being applied to the joystick control, the rudder maintains a “0” center point. If I am turning left at 50% and release the joystick, I want the rudder to automatically move back to “0” point. Same to the right.

Also it would be nice to have this as minimal as possible. From talking with some other people it seems the only way to get this is with a lot of parts and pieces and programming, arduino, microcontrollers, etc etc.

Is this a doable set up? Having trouble finding any information about this type of creation.

3

@wprice1991 Welcome to the community.

  1. Normally this is changed on the controller side, and most programmable RC wireless remotes have this as an option.
  2. Fortunately again, assuming you are using an RC servo, when a joystick is released, there is an auto-return spring.
    https://www.robotshop.com/en/wireless-rc-pwm-servo-controllers.html

If you opt for a wired approach, select a joystick with these as features.
https://www.robotshop.com/en/servo-controllers.html
Ex: https://www.robotshop.com/en/2-servo-joystick-servo-controller.html

Your issue will likely be the torque required by the servo and waterproofing everything (without causing overheating).