Importance

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Abstract

Disclosed is an apparatus having an input device (e.g., a steering wheel) which rotates about an input axis and moves an output device which provides a force along a force axis. The devices are coupled together by a cam follower mechanism which converts input torque to an 'output' linear force exerted by a flexible cable or rigid rod acting along the force axis. When flexible cable is used, it can be mounted concealed in the hull of a boat, for example, and coupled to a steering-type jet nozzle or steering rudder. Thus, rotation of the steering wheel is used to manipulate the nozzle or rudder position. When manufactured, the cam follower mechanism is readily configured to provide any, some or all of a number of custom features as described herein. A new method is also disclosed.

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First Claim