A simplified mathematical model for an onboard maneuvering simulator

Abstract

This paper suggests the development of an onboard maneuvering simulator for ship control. The simulator employs a simplified mathematical model and a set of realistic expectations of ship behavior drawn from seagoing expertise and full scale tests. It predicts the result of imminent maneuvers. The onboard simulator gives ship's officers a chance for self training in real-time conditions, steering the ship. For instance, high-speed prediction of ship motion in a channel, displayed in a suitable form, including pertinent advices such as rules of the road, is expected to help operators anticipate the results of maneuvering decisions and prevent wrong decisions. The suggested model for an onboard simulator makes use of sensors for continuous updating of realtime input, and also includes an on-line system-identification processor by which the mathematical model would be successively adjusted to a changing environment. A simplified mathematical model of the simulator is presented. The block diagrams and the research efforts presented are the research guidelines of the Instituto Universitario Navale at Naples, Italy, for designing an onboard maneuvering simulator for ship control.