Effect of Path Prediction on Navigational Performance

Abstract

A simulator experiment was conducted to determine the potential benefits of path prediction on the navigational performance of channel-bound vessels. Channel pilots had to sail an approach channel under critical conditions in a deep-draught vessel. For the navigation task, basic radar information was used, supplemented by three different path predictors. Predictor (a) was based on an accurate fast-time hydrodynamic model of the vessel and showed the exact future path of the vessel. Both other path predictors were less accurate, relatively simple extrapolators; predictor (b) was based on a speed and rate of turn extrapolator and showed a curved representation of the future path; predictor (c) was based on a linear speed and course extrapolator and showed the ground velocity vector. Navigational performance was determined in terms of deviation from the planned route. The results indicate that the relatively simple extrapolator (b) supported the navigational task as effectively as the highly accurate path predictor (a). In comparison with the linear extrapolator (c), the navigational accuracy increased by a factor of two. It is concluded that support in anticipating the vessel's rate of turn is essential for accurate navigation. Implications of the use of path prediction for ship control are discussed.

A concept for UAV operator involvement in airborne conflict detection and resolution

“…By doing so, the probing data allows the conflict to be presented in the same domain as the maneuvering degrees of freedom. This yields a presentation similar to the ones discussed in [13] and [14] (will be further exemplified in Figure 7). …”

“…In [13], an implementation is described for a nautical navigation display to support the navigator in maintaining safe separation with other vessels. In [14], the concept is referred to as Prediction of Capability Envelope (PCE) and it is reported that it provides a conflict resolution capability that is superior to a conventional display format.…”

“…In the nautical domain, the integration of a trackbased conflict probe has resulted in an improved conflict resolution capability [14]. This improvement can be attributed to the increase in level 3 SA provided by the conflict probe.…”

“…To explore the potential of the concept, both a time-based conflict probe as discussed in [15,16] and a track-based conflict probe as discussed in [13,14] have been implemented and integrated into a CDTI. Similar to the system described in [13], the operator can set and change a trial-speed to see the effect on future separation with other traffic.…”

Design and evaluation of a GUI for operator involvement in airborne conflict detection and resolution

“…To provide the required level 3 Situation Awareness (SA), the GUI was enhanced with conflict probes. These enhancement to both CDTI and ESV PFD are based on the concepts and results reported in the context of research into Airborne Separation Assurance Systems (ASAS) [5,6] and nautical displays [7,8]. A more elaborate analysis of the earlier research and a discussion of the probing concept is presented in [1].…”