Dynamic positioning-dynamic tracking in short

The DP/DT system makes it possible to sail at low speeds on a predefined track were different dredge force compensation functions can be selected and enabled. This improves the efficiency of the dredging process and reduces fuel consumption. In addition to the low speed sailing functions, a positioning mode is also integrated into the DP/DT system. This allows the operator to let the system keep the ship on position and spend his time to ensure shore discharging or rainbow operations are executed smooth and efficient as possible. This again results in less fuel consumption and lower round trip times.

Benefits of our dynamic positioning-dynamic tracking:

  • exceptionally short commissioning time: plug-and-play and self-learning characteristics
  • sophisticated draught compensation designed especially for dredging vessels
  • seamless integration into the vessels propulsion and mission equipment system
  • specially designed rainbow function, to stay on position with less fuel consumption
  • flexible interfacing, were possible additional new sensors can be interfaced
  • enables accurate dredging according to authority requirement
  • enhances uptime
  • saves initial costs and commissioning time
  • remote servicing, maintenance, commissioning and software upgrade possibilities
  • reduces wear and tear of actuators
  • reducing fuel costs and emissions by controlling actuators efficiently. 
Dynamic positioning of a dredging vessel

Auto/track pilot

Besides the functions designed especially for the dredging industry, a type approved auto/track pilot is integrated into the DP/DT system. This results in one system which gives the operator the ability to control the vessel from position keeping to full speed.

Seamless integration

The following proven Royal IHC applications can be seamless integrated into the DP/DT system:

  • Suction tube position monitoring (STPM) – calculates and visualizes the suction tube position
  • Draught and loading monitor (DLM), calculates draught loaded (dry solids) material.
  • Propulsion control system (PCS), a marine approved system which controls the propulsion system. 
  • Power management system (PMS), a marine approved PMS which prevents the ship from black-out situations. Where possible the DP/DT system will be limited by the PMS so different control solutions are created. This allows the operator to continue with their process while the vessel stays at the same position without the risk of a black-out.
  • Dredge track presentation system (DTPS), this allows the operator to create a route which can be send towards the DP/DT system. This allows the operator to automatically dredge on a predefined route which improves the dredging efficiency. 

The DP/DT system is an in-house designed system in close relation with dredging companies. This allowed us to design a system which meets all the requirements which the market asks for. 

Key functionalities

  • Supports the operational requirements of TSHDs and similar vessels
  • Supports all types of actuators: FPP, CPP, azimuth and tunnel thrusters, and rudders
  • Supports all types of drives: diesel-direct, electric, diesel-electric and hydraulic
  • Reference systems: GPS, DGPS, gyro, wind sensors, MRU, USBL, SSBL, SBL, LBL, RADius, force sensors
  • Efficient, accurate and safe activity-based maneuvering of vessels under operational conditions
  • Autopilot, Dynamic Positioning, Dynamic Tracking, independent joystick, and DP0, DP1 and DP2 systems on the same certified platform
  • Processing of external and ‘immeasurable’ external forces and variable inertia compensation
  • Intuitive keyboard and conning display designed in cooperation with experienced DP operators
  • The usage of a sophisticated control algorithm, which limited the amount of thrusts required to control the vessel
  • Different possibilities of interfacing multiple state of the art sensors
  • An extended draught compensation function, specially designed for the dredging industry where there are large draught difference between empty and full conditions
  • Additional options such as a remote control functionality, which can be used to control the movements of the vessel from the bridge wings. Different variations are available, such as with a joystick or with conventional levers
  • The possibility of using a winch with constant tension as additional thrusters in order to provide more power to the discharge system.
Dynamic positioning of a dredging vessel

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