2023-12-29, 12:30 AM
Hydraulic drives vary. Some have valves that use a clutch, other systems use the hydraulic piston even in manual steering so the manual and autopilot pumps can be connected hydraulically in parallel.
Either way, backdriving hydraulics adds friction so my friend removes his hydraulic piston when manually steering.
As for the wheel drive: It is a really good question. Manual clutching is annoying. It should be possible to hinge the motor to tension the belt, or possibly use an automotive A/C compressor clutch on the wiper motor shaft. What do you think? I also have considered the 3d printed pulley on the wheel mounted in such a way (with roller bearings) so that a clutch lever can engage there...
Either way, backdriving hydraulics adds friction so my friend removes his hydraulic piston when manually steering.
As for the wheel drive: It is a really good question. Manual clutching is annoying. It should be possible to hinge the motor to tension the belt, or possibly use an automotive A/C compressor clutch on the wiper motor shaft. What do you think? I also have considered the 3d printed pulley on the wheel mounted in such a way (with roller bearings) so that a clutch lever can engage there...