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Introducing Yacht Controller® DPS

Dynamic Positioning System

• NO ADDITIONAL hardware at the helm required with seamless software integration via our quad-core processor to your vessel's electronic screens
• Packed with Garmin's MSC 10 Marine Satellite Compass heading sensor and tri-band GPS Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver
• More accuracy, faster updates and better detailed tracking backed by Garmin's proven technology
• Superior quality above the competition AT A FRACTION OF THE COST!
• Compatible with Garmin OneHelm, Raymarine and Simrad

Advantages of DPS on Motor Yachts:

• Safety : Enhances safety by maintaining a stable platform, especially in adverse weather conditions or in proximity to hazards.
• Efficiency : Reduces the need for anchors, which can be beneficial in environmentally sensitive areas where anchors might damage the seabed.
• Convenience : Enables the yacht to stay over a point of interest, such as a coral reef or a fishing spot, without drifting.

Achieve greater automation and precision in navigation and vessel control.

How DPS Works:

• Initial Positioning : The operator sets the desired position and heading on the DPS via the wireless remote control or your electronic touchscreens by Garmin, Ray Marine or Simrad.
• Monitoring : Monitoring: Marine Satellite Compass heading sensor and tri-band GPS Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver.
• Adjustments : If the vessel drifts from its set position or heading, the DPS system calculates the necessary adjustments.
• Actuation : Variable speed/proportional thrusters are activated in unison with your engines to counteract the winds and current conditions bringing the vessel back to its desired position and heading.

Pre-Release Offer (delivery this Summer)! Reserve Your Yacht Controller® DPS Now & Save over $5,000.00!

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What is a Dynamic Positioning System (DPS)?

In the vast and unpredictable realm of the seas, precise ship positioning is a cornerstone of many maritime operations.

From deep-sea drilling to intricate underwater research, the Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) has emerged as an indispensable tool, ensuring safety, accuracy, and efficiency.

Quick Summary:

• Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) : A modern marvel aiding ships to maintain their exact position against environmental forces.
• Applications : Widely used in offshore drilling, research missions, and luxury cruises.
• Levels of Sophistication : DPS comes in three primary levels – DP1, DP2, and DP3, each with its unique features and applications.

DPS is a computer-controlled system that automatically regulates a ship’s thrusters and propellers, allowing it to maintain its position and heading against environmental forces like wind, waves, and currents.

Historical Context : The 1960s marked the birth of DPS, initially designed to help drillships remain stationary over deep-sea oil wells. Over the decades, its applications have expanded, and its technology has become more sophisticated.

Why is DPS Used?

Imagine an offshore drilling operation in the North Sea. The waters are deep, the currents unpredictable, and anchoring is not feasible. Here, the Dynamic Positioning System becomes invaluable.

• Anchoring Alternatives : In deep waters or sensitive marine ecosystems, traditional anchoring can be harmful or impractical. DPS offers a non-intrusive solution.
• Key Operations : Beyond drilling, DPS is crucial for research vessels studying marine life in places like the Great Barrier Reef, ensuring they don’t drift and potentially damage delicate ecosystems.

The Components of a Dynamic Positioning System

A Dynamic Positioning System is akin to the orchestra conductor, harmonizing various instruments to create a symphony of coordinated ship movement.

• Sensors : These are the eyes and ears. From wind sensors to gyrocompasses, they continuously feed environmental data to the central system.
• Computer Control System : The brain of the operation. It processes sensor data and determines the necessary propulsion adjustments.
• Thrusters and Propellers : The hands and feet. Acting on the computer’s commands, they adjust their output to maintain the ship’s position.

How Dynamic Positioning Ships Work?

Consider a luxury cruise ship near the Maldives, offering passengers a panoramic view of a sunset. To ensure the ship remains stationary:

• Sensors Detect : They continuously monitor the wind’s speed, the water’s current, and the ship’s drift.
• Computer Processes : Using advanced algorithms, it calculates the required propulsion adjustments.
• Thrusters Act : They respond in real-time, ensuring the ship remains in its desired spot, offering passengers an uninterrupted view.

Pros and Cons of Using Dynamic Positioning

• Safety : Especially in rough seas, DPS can reduce the risk of accidents.
• Precision : For operations like underwater cable-laying, DPS ensures pinpoint accuracy.
• Environmental Care : By eliminating the need for anchoring, DPS can protect sensitive seabeds.
• System Failures : Like all tech, DPS can malfunction, posing operational risks.
• High Initial Costs : Installing a Dynamic Positioning System can be expensive, though it often pays off in operational efficiency.
• Skill Erosion : Over-reliance might erode traditional navigation skills among crew members.

Understanding the Levels of Dynamic Positioning

DPS systems are not one-size-fits-all. They come in varying levels of sophistication:

• DP1 : Suitable for operations where a system failure isn’t critical. Often found on smaller vessels or those operating in safer waters.
• DP2 : Offers redundancy. If one system fails, another takes over. Common in offshore drilling where precision and safety are paramount.
• DP3 : The gold standard. Used in high-risk operations, it boasts multiple redundancies and the most stringent safety measures.

Differences Between DP1, DP2, and DP3 Vessels

• Redundancy Levels : DP3 vessels have the highest redundancy, ensuring operations continue even if multiple systems fail.
• Operational Scenarios : DP3 is for high-risk operations, DP2 is for medium-risk, and DP1 is for operations where DPS failure is less critical.
• Safety Protocols : From backup power supplies to emergency drills, each level has its safety protocols, with DP3 vessels having the most rigorous ones.

Real-world Applications of DPS

In today’s maritime landscape, Dynamic Positioning System is not just a luxury but often a necessity. Here are some real-world scenarios where DPS plays a pivotal role:

• Offshore Wind Farms : In the North Sea, where many offshore wind farms thrive, DPS-equipped vessels, including Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS) ships , are pivotal in positioning turbines accurately, guaranteeing maximum energy harnessing and robust stability.
• Subsea Mining : In the deep waters off Papua New Guinea, companies are exploring the seabed for precious minerals. DPS allows mining vessels to stay stationary, ensuring safe and efficient extraction.
• Deep-sea Research : In the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the world’s oceans, research vessels equipped with DPS can remain stationary, allowing scientists to study this mysterious environment without the vessel drifting away.
• Luxury Cruises : For cruise ships wanting to offer passengers a stationary view of events like the Monaco Grand Prix or the Northern Lights in Norway, DPS ensures the ship remains in the perfect spot without dropping anchor.

Safety and Training in DPS Operations

Given the critical nature of DPS in many operations, ensuring the system’s proper functioning and the crew’s expertise is paramount.

• Regular Maintenance : DPS components, especially sensors, require routine checks and maintenance. For instance, a vessel operating in the silt-laden waters of the Amazon might need more frequent sensor cleanings.
• Crew Training : While DPS automates positioning, human oversight is crucial. Crew members undergo rigorous training, both in simulators and on-board, to understand the system’s nuances and handle potential emergencies.
• Emergency Protocols : On DP2 and DP3 vessels, especially, there are strict protocols for handling system failures. This might involve switching to backup systems, manual overrides, or, in extreme cases, evacuating the vessel.

The Future of Dynamic Positioning

As maritime operations grow in complexity and the push for environmental sustainability intensifies, DPS’s role is set to expand.

• Integration with AI : Future DPS systems might leverage Artificial Intelligence for predictive adjustments, anticipating environmental changes before they occur.
• Eco-friendly Operations : As the maritime world moves towards greener operations, DPS can reduce its carbon footprint by optimizing propulsion and eliminating the need for anchoring in sensitive areas.
• Expanded Applications : As DPS technology becomes more affordable and accessible, we might see its adoption in smaller vessels, including fishing boats and private yachts.

Leading Manufacturers in the Dynamic Positioning System Market

The maritime industry’s reliance on the Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) has led to the emergence of several key players who specialize in manufacturing and innovating these systems. These companies not only provide the hardware and software but also offer training, maintenance, and upgrades, ensuring vessels are equipped with the latest in DPS technology.

Kongsberg Maritime

A Norwegian company with a rich history in maritime technology, Kongsberg Maritime is a global leader in DPS solutions. Their systems are known for reliability and are used in various vessels, from luxury yachts to advanced offshore drilling rigs.

General Electric (GE)

With its vast industrial reach, GE has a dedicated marine solutions division. Their DPS systems, known for integrating advanced algorithms and robust hardware, are widely adopted in both commercial and research vessels.

Rolls-Royce

Beyond luxury cars, Rolls-Royce is a significant player in the maritime sector. Their DPS solutions, often integrated with other on-board systems, offer a seamless navigation experience, especially in challenging marine environments.

A Finnish corporation with a global footprint, Wärtsilä specializes in various marine and energy solutions. Their DPS systems are recognized for their user-friendly interfaces and the ability to integrate with other on-board technologies.

Navis Engineering

Originating from Finland, Navis Engineering has carved a niche for itself in the DPS market. Their systems are known for precision and are especially popular among research vessels and ships operating in extreme conditions.

The Dynamic Positioning System, from its humble beginnings in the 1960s, has become an integral part of the maritime world. Its ability to ensure safety, precision, and eco-friendly operations makes it indispensable in today’s complex and ever-evolving maritime landscape. As we sail into the future, DPS stands as a beacon, guiding vessels through challenges and ensuring the maritime world remains on course.

What is the Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) used for in maritime operations?

DPS is a computer-controlled system that allows ships to maintain their precise position and heading against environmental forces, eliminating the need for anchoring. It’s essential for operations like offshore drilling, deep-sea research, and luxury cruises.

How does the DPS counteract environmental forces like wind and currents?

DPS uses a combination of sensors to detect environmental forces and a computer system to process this data. Based on the information, the system adjusts the ship’s thrusters and propellers in real-time to maintain its desired position.

What are the different levels of Dynamic Positioning, and how do they differ?

There are three primary levels: DP1, DP2, and DP3. DP1 is a basic system without redundancy, suitable for less critical operations. DP2 offers redundancy, ensuring operations continue even if one system fails. DP3 is the most advanced, with multiple redundancies, ideal for high-risk operations.

Are there any drawbacks or limitations to using DPS?

While DPS offers numerous advantages, there are potential drawbacks, including system failures, high initial costs, and the possibility of crew members becoming over-reliant on the technology, leading to a decline in traditional navigation skills.

How does the future of DPS look with advancements in technology?

The future of DPS is promising, with potential integrations with Artificial Intelligence for predictive adjustments and a broader application range, including smaller vessels and eco-friendly maritime operations.

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About the author

I worked as an officer in the deck department on various types of vessels, including oil and chemical tankers, LPG carriers, and even reefer and TSHD in the early years. Currently employed as Marine Surveyor carrying cargo, draft, bunker, and warranty survey.

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1. Introduction to Dynamic Positioning

1.1. dynamic positioning systems.

For many offshore operations it is necessary to keep a vessel at a fix position and heading. Traditionally this has been done using an anchor spread. Nowadays, Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems are replacing anchors.

A Dynamic Positioning system is able to control the position and heading of a vessel by using thrusters that are constantly active and automatically balance the environmental forces (wind, waves, current etc.). Environmental forces tend to move the vessel off the desired position while the automatically controlled thrust balances those forces and keeps the vessel in position.

The main components of any DP system are the positioning system, the DP computer and the thrusters. The positioning system, usually a GPS, monitors the position of the vessel. When the vessel moves off the intended position the DP computer will calculate the required thrust which will then be applying by the thrusters in order to maintain the position of the vessel.

1.2. The use of DP systems

Dynamic positioning systems are typically used by offshore vessels for accurate maneuvering, for maintaining a fixed position or for track keeping (pipe/cable laying). We usually find DP systems on:

• Offshore drilling vessels  (Drilling ships and Semi-submersibles). A Drilling vessel will use DP to remain in a fix location while drilling in deep water.
• Offshore support vessels: Platform supply vessels (PSVs), Well intervention vessels, Diving Support Vessels. Support vessel use DP to stay in a safe distance from offshore platforms and drilling rigs.
• Pipe-laying and offshore construction vessels. Pipe-laying vessels use DP for position keeping and track keeping.
• Dredging vessels. Suction Hopper dredgers, Rock-dumping vessels, Trenching vessels
• Shuttle Tankers.  Shuttle tankers during offloading of FPSOs.

The first DP system was installed in 1961 on the vessel ‘Eureka’. Nowadays (2022), there are over 1000 DP-capable vessels and DP is consider indispensable for deep-water operations.

1.3. Pros and Cons of using Dynamic Positioning

Dynamic Positioning is not always the best of the most economical option. Mooring lines are usually a better option for shallow water or for operation that do not require frequent relocation of the vessel (e.g. drilling at shallow water, diving operations in shallow waters). On the other hand DP is the best option for deep water operations, for congested seabeds and in situations where to vessel needs to relocated frequently

• Quick and easy positioning and maneuverability of the vessel. No need for mooring lines, tugs boats and time consuming anchor handling operations.
• Offshore operations can take place in ultra-deep waters were mooring lines are difficult to installed.
• Easy to change location or weather vane in order to avoid the effects of bad weather. Quick disconnect and sail away in case of emergency.
• Very safe when working in congested seabeds with many pipelines, mooring lines from other vessels or subsea structures such as manifolds, wellheads, risers etc.
• High Capital expenditure for designing and installing a DP systems. High CAPEX.
• High fuel consumption and increased maintenance cost. High OPEX.
• It poses limitations in very swallow waters and situations were diving operations must take place close to the thrusters
• Potentially severe consequences in case of equipment failure during pipe-laying or during operations near fixed platforms.

1.4. The components of a DP systems

There are 5 main component in a DP systems:

• Control Systems.  The DP control system calculates the offets between the measured values of position and heading and the required values (setpoint values). Based on the calculated offsets the control system calculated the forces that the thrusters must generate in order to reduce the errors to zero. 
• Power generation
• Thrusters and propulsion
• Environmental reference
• Position and Heading reference

1.5. How DP systems work

The video below explains where and how DP systems are used

1.6. Thrusters and propulsion

The initial design of a DP system sets the environmental conditions at which the vessel is intended to work on DP. Based on this operational requirement the number, size and location of thrusters is determined. 

1.7. Weathervaning DP

Weathervaning DP is the use of dynamic positioning to keep the vessel at  fixed position while allowing the heading to change to get heading with the least environmental load. This function is similar to single point mooring systems and results into minimum power requirements. 

Weathervaning DP was introduced and tested already in the late 1980s by Pinkster and Davison. The basis of this control is that the vessel is freely weathervaning, similar to single point moored vessels. This type of control is also called weathervaning DP. It must not be confused with the weathervaning mode of normal DP vessels, since bi-axial DP is a passive heading control

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Understanding Modern Dynamic Positioning Systems For Ships

A ship designed to meet extreme working conditions has to manage risks in an effective manner. One way of making sure that the vessel is capable of operation with a fair degree of reliability is by ensuring the various systems onboard the vessel are redundant in certain aspects. In this article, we will take a look at modern day dynamic positioning systems and become familiar with interesting terms associated with these designs.

Redundancy is said to be the hallmark of an excellent evolved design which hopes to tackle system failure. It is the ability of a system to regain or maintain normal function under at least a single mode of failure.

Take the example of an organism’s genome which has the ability to function normally most of the time even in the event of an accidental change in its local structure.

Ships are highly redundant structures specifically because of this reason. Any adverse condition at sea causing some local damage does not sink the entire vessel. However, today we shall focus on another area where system redundancy plays an important role i.e. manoeuvring .

Dynamic Positioning or DP systems are a combination of computer-based controllers and ship’s primary and secondary propulsion and manoeuvring devices, which are responsible to maintain the position and heading of a vessel in given sea condition.

Basically the idea here is to install multiple components to safe guard against failure, while ensuring that their working is based on alternate principles and means of operation (also called orthogonality ). It must also be noted that connections between systems are kept minimal to ensure that failure effects don’t propagate across them (called separation ).

These systems use data from the ship’s position reference sensors, wind sensors, gyrocompasses and similar devices and the data is used as an input in the feedback control loop system which helps in manoeuvring the ship. DP systems are not strictly restricted to ships only, and are often used on offshore drilling units, submersibles and semi-submersible vessels.

According to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), three classes of rules have been developed for DP vessels. They are characterised by varying degrees working conditions and modes of failure. Classification societies like the Lloyd’s Register of Shipping (LRS), DNV-GL, ABS have their own class nomenclature.

However, the idea goes this way:

Under these, there are certain aspects that are positively considered for review of the DP systems like general arrangement, worst case conditions, marine power plant configurations, allowable power losses for different failure modes, environmental conditions (sea states, wind speeds) among other things. During vessel operation, the systems are required to ensure that work in progress is safely completed in the event the DP systems are working in single failure mode. However, the ‘ termination times ’ as they are called can vary and so does the DP system design.

Modern day DP systems are capable of ensuring superior vessel operations even in the harshest of conditions. They are extensively used onboard complex offshore installations which require both accuracy and precision like pipe-lay operations, umbilical-lay, heavy lift activities, etc. This means that there will be a fair amount of duplication of the active positioning systems onboard the vessel (Sometimes called critical redundancy ). To get some idea, here is a table of features of the various DP systems as identified by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS):

Interesting to note that DP systems are not solely concerned with station keeping and controlled manoeuvring operations as may be initially perceived, but are also about how the vessel would perform in a given condition taking into account the environmental conditions, failure mode occurrences. And this is why vessels are chosen based on DP capabilities for performing high-risk operations (also called suitability ).

Coupled with the proliferation of technological applications aboard modern day vessels and offshore installations, it can be safely assumed that DP technology would definitely find a place among integrated automation technologies in the future.

What are your views on the modern DP vessels? Let’s know in the comments below.

Checkout this video on dynamic positioning systems:

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About Author

Sudripto is pursuing Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering at IMU, Visakhapatnam, India. He is an aspiring future Naval Architect with an eye for aesthetics and detail and likes to spend his free time writing maritime blogs and reading about maritime innovations which continue to intrigue him. He is also a Senior Editor at Learn Ship Design- A Student Initiative.

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