Navalshore

The software part of the autopilot has also been greatly upgraded. The functionality of network control transfer between up to 5 network connected control panels has been added. To facilitate the fine-tuning of the autopilot performance, only one parameter, Sensitivity, is used, which allows for covering all the known yawing, steering and counter rudder settings of the autopilots of other brands.

The AP4000 has a built-in Heading Monitor System (HMS) functionality which makes it possible to constantly receive and monitor the data coming from two heading data sources (Gyro+Gyro, Gyro+Magn.Compass, Gyro+Fluxgate etc.). Several speed sources can also be used during operation (GPS, waterspeed log or bottom tracking log).

In addition to the control modes present in the previous generation of the AP4000, three more control modes have been added: the Course Pilot control mode, which allows for steering by a preset COG value, the Windvane mode for sailing yachts, making it possible to steer by setting the relative wind angle, and the River Pilot mode, allowing the operator to steer the vessel by a preset ROT value using an external ROT tiller or a knob in the control panel.

In the Track and Autonav modes the AP4000 acts like a TCS of the “A” and “C” categories respectively.

The AP4000’s fully self-adjusting Auto Tune algorithm allows for easy adapting the autopilot performance to the hydrodynamic parameters of any vessel irrespectively of its displacement and dimensions. This makes it possible to use the AP4000 onboard of any commercial or leisure vessel with a single rudder, linked rudder, independent rudder or stern azimuth Z-drives configuration.

The AP3000 autopilot, the predecessor of the AP4000 has had the DNV MED-B and MED-D “Wheelmark” type-approval examination. It has also been certified as a Track Control System of the “C” category. Full certification of the AP4000 is expected to be finished by the end of the year.

The AP4000 Autopilot will be introduced to the Navis Engineering booth visitors at the SMM, METS, Seatrade Middle East Maritime, and INMEX China exhibitions this fall.