The AlphaRiverTrackPilot is fully automated course and track control system for the inland shipping segment. This first fully automated autopilot system allows a ship to sail along a predefined line. The AlphaRiverTrackPilot will take off the burden of the captain not having to make many manual adjustments.
The AlphaRiverTrackPilot sends steering commands to the autopilot system as values for desired rate of turn (ROT). The autopilot system controls the rudder angle so that the ship turns as required by our track control system.
Compared to a normal river pilot, the AlphaRiverTrackPilot will calculate the required rudder output for the steering of the vessel as well as to compensate for drift. The position, orientation and motion of the ship are measured using a GPS compass together with a ROT sensor (gyro).
Assisted by our proprietary compact joystick control panel, the captain can derive from the preset line and make small adjustment while navigating to the course of the vessel course. The choice of desired steering system automatic, follow up and track can be easily selected from the existing Alphatron Marine river pilot.
The touchscreen of the control panel shows the most important data of the control system. It is possible to adjust and reset the offset to the guiding line, select different configurations and control parameters i.e. for different loading conditions. The touchscreen also displays detailed alarms and warning information.
The track control system features a network interface for inland ECDIS chart displays. At first, the chart display shows the selected guiding line. Later, using the chart system, it is possible to select other guiding lines or create new guiding lines according to personal preferences and send them to the AlphaRiverTrackPilot.
For passing and encountering other vessels there is an adjustable offset to the guiding line. The offset is easily changed by using the joystick on the control panel.
