Rudder

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Olympic_stern_and_rudder

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Rudder_of_a_Roman_Boat_(RG_Museum_Koeln,_Germany)

Eastern_Han_pottery_boat

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Pottery_boat_from_Eastern_Han_Dynasty_showing_rudder

Rudder

A rudder is a primary control surface used to steer a ship, boat, submarine, hovercraft, aircraft, or other conveyance that moves through a fluid medium (generally air or water). The rudder is typically a flat, movable structure attached to the stern or tail of the vehicle. When the rudder is turned, it deflects the flow of water or air, causing the vehicle to change direction.

History

The use of rudders dates back to ancient times. Early rudders were simple steering oars attached to the side of the vessel. The Chinese are credited with the invention of the stern-mounted rudder during the 1st century AD, which significantly improved the maneuverability of ships.

Types of Rudders

Rudders come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the type of vehicle and its specific requirements. Some common types include:

• Balanced Rudder: A rudder with a portion of its area forward of the pivot point, reducing the effort needed to turn it.
• Unbalanced Rudder: A rudder with all of its area aft of the pivot point, requiring more effort to turn.
• Semi-balanced Rudder: A combination of balanced and unbalanced rudder designs.

Aircraft Rudders

In aviation, the rudder is a crucial component of the empennage (tail assembly) of an aircraft. It is used to control yaw, which is the side-to-side movement of the aircraft's nose. The rudder is operated by the pilot using foot pedals in the cockpit.

Marine Rudders

In maritime applications, the rudder is mounted on the stern of the vessel and is used to steer the ship. The rudder is connected to the helm, which is controlled by the ship's wheel or tiller. Modern ships often use advanced rudder designs, such as the Schilling rudder or Becker rudder, to improve maneuverability.

Submarine Rudders

Submarines use rudders to control both horizontal and vertical movement. The horizontal rudder, or stern plane, controls the submarine's depth, while the vertical rudder controls its direction.

Hovercraft Rudders

Hovercraft use rudders to direct the flow of air from the lift fans, allowing them to steer. These rudders are typically located at the rear of the hovercraft.

Related Pages

• Ship
• Aircraft
• Submarine
• Hovercraft
• Empennage
• Yaw
• Helm
• Schilling rudder
• Becker rudder

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