11 Electric Outboard Steering
Welcome to the world of electronic power steering. Please take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the system overview and the first time operation sections. An understanding of the system will assure your safety and help you get the most enjoyment from your Optimus EPS steering system. NOTE Some products shown in this section are only available from an Optimus dealer please refer to www.dometic.com for more information and to find a dealer near you.
11.1 Optimus EPS — electro/hydraulic
11.1.1
Overview Optimus EPS is a steer-by-wire system that replaces a traditional hydraulic helm with an electronic helm that communicates over a serial data network. This state-of-the-art system incorporates many advanced features to make it safe and reliable. These features include redundant sensors, fault-tolerant communications, extensive self-monitoring, and fault communications to notify and advise the operator in case of a system fault. The Optimus EPS system consists of several major components, listed below. Refer to figure 11-1 through figure 11-4 to see these components in a schematic system diagram. Electronic helm The helm converts steering wheel movement into digital messages that are sent over the network to the pump control module (PCM). A system of friction plates in the helm allow the steering effort to be adjusted according to a set-point received from the PCM. (A steering wheel is not included with the Optimus EPS system.) CANtrak display The CANtrak display is a small color LCD that displays system status and fault information to the operator. It can also be used to make changes to user-adjustable steering settings, such as helm effort and number of turns, when enabled by the boat builder or dealer. Dash panel Standard on single-engine outboard systems, the dash panel has an LED to indicate system status and a pushbutton for alarm acknowledgment. Pump control module (PCM) The PCM receives wheel movement messages from the helm(s) and operates the hydraulic steering pumps to steer the vessel as required. The PCM uses position feedback from the SmartCylinders for precise steering control and fault detection. The PCM can also respond to inputs from a certified autopilot system.
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