Steering system for tug boat - has linkage for automatic correction of fore and aft alignment of tug and barge

The tug-boat, which propels a barge, has a steering system linked to the barge, which automatically corrects any tendency for the two craft to drift out of fore and aft alignment. A coupling permitting relative rolling and pitching of the two craft is used. Rigidly mounted on the stern of the barge (3) are two vertical bars (10a, 10b). Resting between the bars (10a, 10b) is a V-rimmed wheel (11a) diametrically pivoted on a vertical spindle mounted on the bow of the tug boat (1). Angular deflection of the centre-lines of the two craft causes movement of two links (12a, 12b), which actuate the steering mechanism (18) applying a corrective rudder setting.