Helm Autopilot and Steering Control System PDF

NAVIGATION 1 HELM AUTOPILOT AND STEERING CONTROL SYSTEM PRESENTED BY: CARLOBOS, COLETO, DACDAC, DACUP  OBJECTIVES: To provide a detailed and comprehensive overview of HELM AUTOPILOT To provide a detailed and comprehensive overview of STEERING CONTROL SYS...

NAVIGATION 1 HELM AUTOPILOT AND STEERING CONTROL SYSTEM PRESENTED BY: CARLOBOS, COLETO, DACDAC, DACUP  OBJECTIVES: To provide a detailed and comprehensive overview of HELM AUTOPILOT To provide a detailed and comprehensive overview of STEERING CONTROL SYSTEM  EXPECTED TO: Know what is an autopilot Know what is steering control system Differentiate the types of Differentiate the types of steering autopilot History of steering control system History of autopilot Components found on a steering How autopilot works control system Parts of autopilot Types of steering modes Uses of autopilot Benefits of autopilot Credentials for using autopilot Operational procedures Regulations implied by the Regulations implied by the IMO IMCO Purpose of using steering control Benefits of using autopilot system HELM AUTOPILOT HELM AUTOPILOT Helm autopilot systems in ships are sophisticated control mechanisms designed to maintain a vessel’s course and heading with minimal human intervention. The primary objective of an autopilot system is to reduce the error between the actual heading and the desired heading, thereby enhancing the vessel’s navigational efficiency and safety (Dlabač et al., 2019; Tung, 2017).  ￭ BACKGROUND 1912 -Invention of the first autopilot by Elmer Sperry, an American engineer and inventor. This system, called the “Gyroscopic Compass,” automatically steered ships using gyroscopes, reducing the need for constant manual steering by human operators. 1920s -The autopilot was first used on commercial and naval vessels, and improvements were made to refine the technology. 1950s-1960s -Introduction of more advanced, reliable autopilot systems as technology in gyroscopes, electronics, and hydraulics improved. These systems were able to handle larger ships and longer voyages more accurately.  ￭ BACKGROUND 1970s-1980s -The integration of GPS into autopilot systems revolutionized how ships were steered. Now, autopilot systems could track exact positions and adjust courses with greater precision. 2000s -With advancements in computers and navigation systems, autopilots became more sophisticated, integrating advanced sensors, control algorithms, and the ability to work with electronic chart displays (ECDIS). Today -Modern helm autopilots can integrate with various electronic navigation systems, use complex algorithms to adjust the ship’s course, and offer various modes like route tracking and weather  TYPES OF AUTOPILOT PID (PROPORTIONAL-INTEGRAL-DERIVATIVE) Is a control mechanism used in many autopilot systems to manage the steering of a vessel. This type of autopilot system uses a PID controller to continuously adjust the vessel’s heading to keep it on the desired course. AUTO-ADAPTIVE STEERING SYSTEM Refers to a more advanced type of autopilot system that dynamically adjusts its parameters and control strategies based on changing conditions. This system adapts to various factors, such as changes in sea state, vessel loading, or changes in the weather, to optimize steering performance. HOW AUTOPILOT WORKS? PARTS OF HELM AUTOPILOT  MAIN STEERING GYROCOMPASS OR CONTROL UNIT MAGNETIC COMPASS Description: Provides accurate heading Description: This unit acts as the information. The gyrocompass is more brain of the autopilot system. It common in modern systems due to its processes input from the course precision and ability to compensate for the selector and gyro compass. Earth’s magnetic variation. Uses: The main steering control unit Uses: Provides the heading information determines the corrections needed to necessary for the autopilot to maintain a steer the vessel toward the selected set course. It helps in determining the course. It issues commands to the  COURSE COMPUTER/ SELECTOR Description: The course selector is an input device that allows the operator to set the desired course for the vessel. Uses: It communicates the intended course to the autopilot control unit. The autopilot will then compare this desired heading with the actual heading provided by the gyro compass to make any necessary adjustments. RUDDER Description: The rudder is the control surface on a vessel that directs its movement through water. Uses: By rotating to different angles, the rudder helps change the direction of the vessel according to the adjustments made by the steering gear system.  SOLENOID VALVE FEEDBACK SENSORS Description: Electromechanical device that controls the flow of hydraulic fluid Description: Sensors that provide to the steering gear. information on the position of the rudder or helm, ensuring the system knows the Uses: It receives commands from the current steering status. main steering control unit to either activate or deactivate the hydraulic Uses: It sends real-time data back to the steering system. When the autopilot main steering control unit, allowing the system determines that a course autopilot to adjust its commands based correction is needed, the solenoid on the actual performance of the steering valve controls the hydraulic pressure system. This is essential for maintaining  RUDDER ANGLE INDICATOR Description: This is a device that displays the current angle of the rudder. Uses: It provides feedback to both the crew and the autopilot system regarding the rudder’s position. This information helps ensure that the system makes precise adjustments based on actual rudder movement. STEERING GEAR SYSTEM Description: This is the mechanical system that translates the commands from the control unit into physical movement of the rudder and other parts of the ship. Uses: The steering gear executes the commands received via the solenoid valve, adjusting the USES OF HELM AUTOPILOT  Course Holding: It maintains a steady heading without the need for manual steering, which is especially beneficial during long voyages or challenging conditions. This ensures more relaxed and efficient navigation. Route Following: By automatically following pre-programmed routes or waypoints, and integrating GPS and electronic charts, the autopilot system simplifies navigation, reducing the need for constant manual adjustments. Stability Control: The system helps stabilize the vessel by compensating for wave action and adverse weather, improving overall comfort and safety. Workload Reduction: It decreases the manual steering workload, allowing the crew to focus on other important tasks or rest. Collision Avoidance: When integrated with other navigational aids  1. Reduced Workload: Allows crew members to focus on other critical tasks, improving overall operational efficiency. Necessity of 2. Increased Accuracy: Enhances the precision of navigation, which is crucial for avoiding Using Helm hazards and following specific routes. 3. Improved Safety: Minimizes human error Autopilot and fatigue, which can be significant factors in maritime accidents. 4. Cost-Effective: Reduces the need for continuous manual steering, which can be beneficial for long voyages and commercial operations.  IMCO REGULATIONS FOR HELM AUTOPILOTS RESOLUTION 4.342(IX) adopted on 12 November 1975 RECOMMENDATION ON PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR AUTOMATIC PILOTS THE ASSEMBLY, NOTING Article 16(i) of the IMCO Convention concerning the functions of the Assembly, HAVING CONSIDERED the Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on its thirty-second session, RESOLVES: (a) To adopt the Recommendation on Performance Standards for Automatic Pilots, the text of which is set out in the Annex to this Resolution (b) To recommend Member Governments to ensure that automatic pilots conform to performance standards not inferior to those specifi ed in the Recommendation. ANNEX RECOMMENDATION ON PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR AUTOMATIC PILOTS Automatic pilot equipment aboard a seagoing vessel should comply with the following minimal operational requirements in addition to the general requirements contained in Assembly Resolution A.281 (VIII). 1. General 1.1 Within limits related to a vessel’s maneuverability the automatic pilot in conjunction with its source of heading information should enable a vessel to keep a proset course with minimum operation of the vessel’s steering gear. 1.2 The automatic pilot equipment should be capable of adapting to diff erent steering characteristics of the vessel under various weather and loading conditions, and provide reliable operation under prevailing environmental and normal operational conditions. 2. Changing over from automatic to manual steering and vice versa. 2.1 Changing over from automatic to manual steering and vice-versa should be possible at any rudder position and be eff ected by one, or at the most two manual controls, within a time lag of 3 seconds. 2.2 Changing over from automatic to manual steering should be possible under any conditions, including any failure in the automatic control system. 2.3 When changing over from manual to automatic steering, the automatic pilot should be capable of bringing the vessel to the preset course. 2.4 Chango-over controls should be located close to each other in the immediate vicinity of the main steering position. 2.5 Adequate indication should be provided to show which method of steering is in operation at a particular moment. 3 Alarm signalling facilities 3.1 A course monitor should be provided which actuates an adequate “off course “audible alarm signal after a course dovintion of a presot amount. 3.2 The information required to actuate the course monitor should be provided from an independent source. 3.3 Alarm signals, both audible and visual, should be provided in order to indicate failure or a reduction in the power supply to the automatic pilot or course monitor, which would aff ect the safe operation of the equipment. 3.4 The alarm signalling facilities should be fi tted near the steering position. 4 Controls 4.1 The number of operational controls should be minimized as far as possible and they should be designed to preclude inadvertent operation. 4.2 Unless features for automatic adjustments are incorporated in the installation, the automatic pilot should be provided with adequate controls for operational use to adjust eff ects due to weather and the ship’s steering performance. 4.3 The automatic pilot should be designed in such a way as to ensure altering course to starboard by turning the course setting control clockwise. Normal alterations of course should be possible by one adjustment only of the course setting control. 4.4 Except for the course setting control the actuation of any other control should not signifi cantly aff ect the course of the vessel. 4.5 Additional controls at remote position should comply with the provisions of this Recommendation. 5. Rudder angle limitation Means should be incorporated in the equipment to enable rudder angle limitation in the automatic mode of operation. Means should also be available to indicate when the angle of limitation has been reached.  Credentials for Using Autopilot Systems ⚬Certification and Training ⚬Maritime Certifications: Operators typically need relevant maritime certifications, such as those provided by national maritime authorities or international organizations. ⚬Specific Training: Training specific to the autopilot system in use is often required. This training ensures that operators understand how to set, monitor, and troubleshoot the autopilot system. ⚬Operational Procedures ⚬Compliance: Operators must ensure that autopilot systems are used in accordance with the ship’s operational procedures and safety protocols, which are often developed in compliance with IMO regulations. ⚬Regular Maintenance and Checks ⚬Standards: Autopilot systems must be regularly maintained and checked to ensure they meet safety and performance standards. This is part of the broader requirement for maintaining navigational equipment in good working order. STEERING CONTROL SYSTEM  STEERING CONTROL SYSTEM According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Maritime Administration (2022), a steering control system is a critical component of a ship’s navigation and maneuvering system, responsible for controlling the direction of the vessel. It typically includes various elements such as the helm (steering wheel), autopilot systems, and hydraulic or electric actuators that move the rudder or other steering mechanisms. The system ensures precise control over the ship's course and can operate in manual or automatic modes, allowing for adjustments  BACKGROUN D Pre-19th Century -Early ships used simple tillers (manual control devices attached to the rudder) for steering. These systems were purely mechanical and required manual effort from the helmsman to steer the ship. 19th Century -Introduction of steering wheels that offered mechanical advantage to helmsmen. These wheels were connected to the rudder via ropes and pulleys. 1866 -John McFarlane Gray patented the first steam-powered steering gear, which allowed for much easier steering, especially on large ships. This marked the 1900s BACKGROUN D -Hydraulic steering systems were introduced, offering greater power and ease of steering for large vessels. These systems allowed for smoother, more precise control over the rudder, particularly on larger ships. 1950s -The development of electrical control systems in steering, enabling more remote control and integration with emerging navigation technologies. 1970s-1980s -Computerization of steering control systems began, allowing for greater integration with autopilot systems. Ships could now automatically switch between manual and automatic steering modes. Modern Era -Today’s steering control systems are highly advanced, incorporating redundant safety features to prevent failure, multiple modes of operation (manual, automatic, follow-up systems), and ease of switching between these modes. COMPONENTS TYPICALLY FOUND IN THE STEERING CONTROL SYSTEM OF A SHIP 1. Steering Wheel (Helm): - Located in the wheelhouse, this allows the operator to manually steer the ship. It’s connected to the steering control system, translating manual inputs into rudder movements. 2. Steering Gear: - The mechanism that moves the rudder in response to commands. Components include: - Hydraulic Rams or Electric Motors: Drive the movement of the rudder. - Linkages and Pistons: Connect the actuators to the rudder. 3. Autopilot System: - Automates steering based on pre-set courses or heading. Components include: - Course Controller: Input device for setting desired headings. - Sensors: Measure the ship’s heading and provide feedback. - Actuators: Adjust the steering gear based on autopilot 4. Power Supply System: 5. Feedback 6. Steering Control - Provides the necessary Mechanisms: Consoles: power to operate the - Provide real-time steering gear and - Interface used by data on the steering autopilot. Components system’s performance. the operator to control include: Components include: and monitor the - Hydraulic Pumps: - Rudder Position steering system. Supply hydraulic pressure Indicators: Display the Includes controls for to the steering gear. angle of the rudder. - Electric Motors: Power manual and automatic - Feedback Sensors: electric steering systems. Monitor the system’s steering, as well as - Generators: Provide status and ensure indicators and alarms. 8. Steering Gear Compartment: - The physical space where the steering gear and related equipment are housed. Ensures the gear operates correctly and safely. 7. Rudder: - The primary control surface used to change the direction of the ship. It’s moved by the steering gear.  Types of Steering Control Systems 1. Manual Control Systems -Operated by a helmsman, relying on hydraulic or mechanical linkages to move the rudder. 2. Automatic Control Systems - Integrated with autopilot for hands-off steering.  Steering Modes 1. Autopilot - The ship will automatically find its way to a pre-set position point along a pre-set route. If the ship is forced out of course, the autopilot will use the rudder to get the ship back on course. 2.Non Follow-up Steering - Non Follow-up is total manual control of the rudder movement, from wheel-house or, in emergency situations, from the steering gear compartment. 3. Follow-up Steering - Follow-up mode is a variant of manual, it allows the rudder to be locked any rudder angle, and the system will hold it there until you move it again.  OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES 1. Pre-Operation Checks: - Inspect Equipment: Check for any visible signs of damage or leaks in the steering gear and hydraulic systems. - Verify Fluid Levels: Ensure that hydraulic fluid levels are adequate and that there are no leaks. - Test System Components: Confirm that the helm, autopilot, and feedback systems are functioning correctly. 2. Manual Operation: - Engage Helm: Turn the helm to adjust the rudder’s angle. The movement is transmitted through mechanical or hydraulic systems to change the rudder’s position. - Monitor Heading: Observe the ship’s heading and ensure it aligns with the intended course. Adjust as needed. 3. Autopilot Operation: - Set Desired Course: Input the desired heading or route into the autopilot system. - Activate Autopilot: Engage the autopilot to take control of the steering. The system will adjust the rudder automatically to maintain the set course. - Monitor Performance: Regularly check the autopilot display and ship’s heading to ensure the system is accurately maintaining the course. 4. Switching Between Manual and Automatic Control: - Manual Override: If manual control is required, disengage the autopilot and take over the helm. This should be done smoothly to avoid sudden course changes. - Re-engage Autopilot: When switching back to autopilot, ensure the system is correctly set to the desired course and 5. Emergency Procedures: - Manual Steering: If the autopilot fails or there’s a system malfunction, switch to manual steering. Follow standard emergency protocols for handling steering issues. - System Troubleshooting: Identify and address any faults in the steering system. Refer to technical manuals or consult with technical personnel if needed. 6. Post-Operation Procedures: - Inspect for Issues: After use, check the steering system for any signs of wear or malfunction. - Record Operation: Document any operational issues or anomalies for maintenance records and future reference. The primary purpose of the steering control system is to: 1. Navigate the Ship: Ensure the ship follows the desired course. 2. Maneuvering: Assist in docking, undocking, and navigating through tight spaces. 3. Safety: Prevent collisions and ensure the ship can respond effectively to navigational hazards. 4. Effi ciency: Optimize the ship's route for fuel efficiency and time management. REGULATIONS: SOLAS Chapter II-1, Regulation 29, specifies requirements for steering gears. This includes having a manual backup system, periodic testing, and clear procedures for operating the steering control system. Ships must have redundancy and backup systems to ensure they remain operational in the event of a failure.  CONCLUSION Both the helm autopilot and the ship steering control system are essential in modern ship navigation. While the helm autopilot automates the process of steering a ship along a set course, the steering control system ensures precise manual or automated rudder movements. Together, these systems offer redundancy, efficiency, and ease of control, particularly for long voyages. They comply with IMO regulations, ensuring safety and reliability, with the ability to easily switch between manual and automatic control to adapt to various navigational needs.