Japan Radio Co (JRC)’s Alphatron Marine has further developed its autonomous pilot technology for workboats, tugs and fast crew tender vessels
At the same time, the company has secured an extension to certifiying its short-range marine radar.
Alphatron Marine has used existing technology and experience to introduce an adaptive autopilot for multiple vessel types. Its AlphaPilot MFS-VR uses information on the speed or draught of a vessel to implement an optimised route for tugs and workboats.
It is a successor to AlphaSeaPilot MFC and MFA multifunctional autopilot devices, which means it can be easily retrofitted during vessel upgrades.
AlphaPilot MFS-VR is a speed-adaptive, type-approved autopilot with a version for vessels capable of transiting at speeds of up to 30 knots. It has also been type-approved for high-speed craft, compliant with international standard ISO-16329, to provide an overall speed application range for vessels up to 70 knots.
AlphaPilot MFS-VR has a 5-in multi-colour touchscreen display and a rotary interface for configuration. There is a separated distribution box to communicate with external data signals.
This distribution box has multiple terminals to directly connect different steering systems for proportional valves, thrusters, waterjet control and solenoids. AlphaPilot MFS-VR can be integrated into a master’s control seat in the wheelhouse.
Also in Europe, Alphatron has obtained an extension of certification for its category one and two radar series, JMR-5400. This certification verifies the radar’s short-range detection and target discrimination of vessels and hazards on high brightness displays.
JMR-5400 runs on JRC’s latest signal processing technology for a rapid refresh of clearer radar images in all weather and sea conditions.
JRC has added proprietary optimisation technology to automatically remove clutter when this function is selected. JMR-5400 radar series is available with a wide combination of scanners, including JRC’s latest radar scanning units, bird detection antennas and solid-state radar antennas.
Alphatron says these functions make it suitable for tugs, workboats, fishing and offshore support vessels. It worked with Norway-based Pronav to add more display sizes to cater for different vessel types and requirements, with a range of 19-in to 55-in monitors.
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