Permanent Magnet Motor Steering Gear

The design of a permanent magnet motor (PMM) steering gear system for a DDG51 class ship is proposed. The system utilizes proven PMM technology developed by Magnet Motors of Starnberg, Germany The proposed design will meet Navy requirements including: maximum torque (583,333 ft-lbs), slew rate (5.5 degrees per second), travel (+/- 35 degrees), shock (grade A 35), and reliability greater than 99.5%. The first phase project will study four alternative designs: a. a large-diameter medium-speed motor mounted coaxially with the rudder stock on the ring of a planetary reduction gear; b. a pair of high speed motors each of which drives a ball screw actuator that replaces existing hydraulic rams, and c. a high-speed motor driving through a high-ratio harmonic drive. d. four high-speed motors driving pinion gears on a large bull gear quadrant All concepts will have a resilient drive element to protect machinery from shock and vibration loads. The design work will occur in an Integrated Product Team environment that invites Navy experts to actively participate through review meetings held at 6-week intervals. The phase I report will contain detailed drawings and supporting engineering calculations for the selected configuration. Modernization of essential Navy equipment for weight saving, greater control and enhanced maintenance.