Exam Question

### (a) Function of the "Hunting Gear" in Control Parlance
The hunting gear is a mechanical feedback mechanism that forms the core of the closed-loop control system for an electro-hydraulic steering gear. Its primary function is to ensure the rudder reaches and maintains the exact angle selected at the helm (the setpoint) and to automatically correct for any deviations caused by external forces like wave action.
In control systems terminology, its operation is broken down as follows:
* **Comparator & Controller**: The central component, a 'floating lever', acts as a mechanical comparator. It continuously compares two inputs: the desired rudder angle (setpoint) from the bridge telemotor and the actual rudder angle (process variable) from the feedback linkage.