Model Boat Mayhem

Mess Deck: General Section => Beginners start here...! => Topic started by: essexbill on April 29, 2018, 07:55:42 am

Title: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: essexbill on April 29, 2018, 07:55:42 am
Hi.


Yet another question.

I have recently purchased a MMM "Nantu" that needs the electrics completing.

2 steerable Korts nozzles fitted.

Someone suggested a mixer unit and ANDY at MMM suggested tank steering.

My only concern with Tank Steering is keeping her running straight rather than a zig zag pattern.

What are peoples thoughts or experiences please. 
Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: kinmel on April 29, 2018, 08:01:23 am
All my twin prop models are on tank steering, easy once you have mastered the basics.

I have used mixers in the past and they do a good job as long as both motors perform equally.

Tank is much cheaper !
Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: Bob K on April 29, 2018, 08:28:15 am
It is largely a matter of preference.  Both systems work well.

Myself I prefer a good mixer system for multi-motors.
eg:  Action Electronics P94 from Component Shop.  Dual 20A ESC's with various modes of mixing (switchable) and internal pot to adjust how the proportional mixing operates.

Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: Butts on April 29, 2018, 08:33:42 am
I mentioned a mixer as a option with the P94 as Bob has explained.

For tugs I would always recommend tank steering as the first option. Most people can manage to master the method, but others find it alien.  With the P94 you have the option.
Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: steamboat66 on April 29, 2018, 08:54:27 am
having flown multirotors in the past, i may find a mixer preferable. i'll cross that bridge eventually. try both, on other peoples boats.
Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: tigertiger on April 29, 2018, 09:07:39 am
Do mixers allow you to run one prop forwards and the other backwards?
Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: Bob K on April 29, 2018, 09:11:51 am
Do mixers allow you to run one prop forwards and the other backwards?

Yes, that is one of the usual options provided.  Good for Tugs and Springers.
Long thin Warships usually work best with the inboard prop slowing on the turn.

See  http://www.action-electronics.co.uk/pdfs/P94.pdf (http://www.action-electronics.co.uk/pdfs/P94.pdf)  for full options
Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: steamboat66 on April 29, 2018, 09:16:36 am
you can blend the two with a forge electronics mixer.
Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: Netleyned on April 29, 2018, 10:36:02 am
Good for Tugs and Springers.

No need for a mixer on a springer O0
If it has more than one prop, it's not a Springer.


Ned
Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: Jerry C on April 29, 2018, 10:49:35 am
If you know how to set up a twin screw vessel and drive it then use tank steering. If you don’t then use a mixer. As a past skipper of AHTS vessels I prefer tank steering with independent rudders. It allows you to walk a boat sideways without a bow thruster.
Jerry.
Title: Re: Tank Steering or mixer
Post by: cos918 on April 29, 2018, 06:29:12 pm
I use tank steer on my Ferries .
1 set the power port  and adjust on starboard to get get straight running.
2 when feeling lazy and wont to go slow to conserve batteries use one motor and kick the rudder over a bit .
3 you have far more control with tank steering than a mixer can ever do .
John