THE IBM ADAPTIVE AUTOPILOT

The coefficients or gains used in the steering control algorithm are continuously changed to reflect the operating environment of the ship. Simulation studies and sea trial tests indicated at least a 1% increase in speed would be obtainable. An experiment was conducted aboard the T/S Esso Wilhelmshaven during fourth quarter 1975. The procedure involved a series of tests where the standard autopilot was compared against the performance of the IBM AAP. By using direct comparison during several short intervals, effects of sea state and weather would be substantially eliminated. The results indicated an average speed gain of 0.15 knots for the T/S Esso Wilhelmshaven while steaming at a nominal 12 knots. This translates to an improvement of slightly over 1% and validates previous findings. Additional findings of the study indicate the IBM AAP has a potential for speed improvement of up to 2%. The goal was to maximize down range distance which was accomplished by ordering rudder commands that were less in magnitude and fewer in number. The result was less drag on the ship and an increase in speed.

• Corporate Authors:

  International Business Machines Corporation

  Boca Raton, FL  United States 
• Authors:
  • Schilling, A
• Publication Date: 1976-2

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automatic pilot (Aircraft); Automatic pilot (Ships); Drag; Pilotage; Steering systems; Traffic speed
• Old TRIS Terms: Drag reduction; Speed performance; Steering system actuation
• Subject Areas: Marine Transportation; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00138025
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: International Business Machines Corporation
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 22 1976 12:00AM