Jim S.
Hot Rolled
- Joined
- Sep 4, 2003
- Location
- South Carolina
I operate a working tugboat with a 1950s era searchlight. Tilt and pan movement is via two 115VDC 1/20hp motors, controlled via a crude mechanical "joystick". The OEM motors are failing due to age (OEM replacements are Permanent Magnet) plus the ability to accurately spot the beam is difficult because of "full-on/full-off" nature of switch. Best I can tell, the joystick simply reverses the polarity of the 115VDC supplied to the motor armature.
Replacement of existing DC motors with steppers or servos and a simple controller with joystick seems a logical approach but I know nothing about where to start looking for and matching best components. I DO NOT need position control but would like to have the ability to jog or control the speed of the motors in each direction, presumably by how far the joystick is moved. I would also consider using existing motors if I could control motor speed as well as direction thru joystick.
Any recommendations on best place to look for matching/purchasing components?
I have the ability to machine adapters or mounts from the existing foot mounted motors to face mounts typical of small steppers or servos. 12VDC and 120VAC is readily available for power.
TIA,
Jim
Replacement of existing DC motors with steppers or servos and a simple controller with joystick seems a logical approach but I know nothing about where to start looking for and matching best components. I DO NOT need position control but would like to have the ability to jog or control the speed of the motors in each direction, presumably by how far the joystick is moved. I would also consider using existing motors if I could control motor speed as well as direction thru joystick.
Any recommendations on best place to look for matching/purchasing components?
I have the ability to machine adapters or mounts from the existing foot mounted motors to face mounts typical of small steppers or servos. 12VDC and 120VAC is readily available for power.
TIA,
Jim