Vessel Interface Unit for Unified Dynamic Positioning Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current marine vessel control and sensor systems lack interoperability with dynamic positioning systems, posing risks during assisted maneuvering operations by auxiliary vessels like tugboats.
Innovation Solution
An interface unit that connects the control and sensor systems of an assisted vessel with a master dynamic positioning system, enabling communication and control of thrust capabilities, including inertial navigation and secure wireless communication, to coordinate the movement of auxiliary vessels and the assisted vessel as a unified unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a master dynamic positioning system controls auxiliary vessels without integrating with the assisted vessel's control system, then the master DP system can operate independently, but safety and coordination during maneuvering operations deteriorate due to lack of communication and potential misunderstandings
Solution Approach 1:
An interface unit is introduced as an intermediary component that connects the master DP system with the assisted vessel's control system. This interface unit enables bidirectional communication, allowing the master DP system to receive sensor data from and send control commands to the assisted vessel's thrust capabilities, thereby improving safety without requiring direct complex integration between the two systems
Solution Approach 2:
The interface unit is designed with universal communication capabilities that can interface with different types of control and sensor systems on various assisted vessels. This multi-functional interface can handle multiple data types (sensor readings, control commands, vessel status) and communicate with different vessel systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability
2Measurement precision
If the master DP system controls only auxiliary vessels as separate units, then control system complexity is reduced, but maneuvering precision and coordination efficiency deteriorate due to lack of unified coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The master DP system merges control of multiple auxiliary vessels with control of the assisted vessel's thrust capabilities into a unified control framework. By integrating control of all vessels and the assisted vessel's propulsion system, the system achieves precise coordinated maneuvering while managing complexity through centralized control logic that treats the entire assembly as a single controlled entity
3Loss of information
If auxiliary vessels operate without real-time data from the assisted vessel's sensor system, then system simplicity is maintained, but situational awareness and response accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The interface unit establishes a feedback loop where sensor data from the assisted vessel (including position, heading, speed, and environmental conditions) is continuously transmitted to the master DP system. This real-time feedback enables the master system to make informed control decisions about both the auxiliary vessels and the assisted vessel's thrust capabilities, improving information availability without requiring overly complex communication infrastructure
Data Source
AI summary
An interface unit providing an interface between a control and sensor system of an assisted vessel with thrust capabilities and a master dynamic positioning system. The master dynamic positioning system is configured to control a number of auxiliary vessels as one unit and control the thrust capabilities of the assisted vessel for assisting in maneuvering of the assisted vessel. A master dynamic positioning system comprises the interface unit above. A system for assisting in maneuvering of a vessel with thrust capabilities comprises the master dynamic positioning system controlling a number of auxiliary vessels as one unit for assisting in maneuvering of an assisted vessel. A dynamic positioning system of each of the auxiliary vessels is controlled by the master dynamic positioning system. The master dynamic positioning system controls the thrust capabilities of the assisted vessel. The master dynamic positioning system may be provided on-board a tugboat.