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Marine autopilots were earlier reserved for bigger vessels and ships only but now they can be commonly found on boats more than 26ft in length.
An autopilot system comprises five main components: the control panel, the computer, the heading sensor, rudder drive and, a rudder-position sensor.
The biggest technology advancement in marine autopilots has been in the sense that today’s units can steer a far more accurate course, even in very challenging conditions, than early models.
The use of microprocessors now allows automatic compensation for asymmetry, counter-rudder and course tracking easily available now. Wireless-remote autopilot controls are now gaining popularity.Some autopilots now even have Steer by wire capability
Most of the autopilot technology now used in marine has migrated from aerospace.Tecnautic sells its products exclusively online and has pioneered the transfer of aircraft autopilot technology to the marine market.
NKE’s GyroPilot developed in 1995 with a gyro compass that can output the rate at which a yacht is turning as well as its instantaneous heading now has a 3D sensor. The 3D sensor measures boat`s movement and orientation to provide accurate technical control data.
GARMIN`s Reactor series of pilots is designed for both sailing and motor yachts.
Raymarine is now using artificial intelligence (AI) to create its Evolution range of pilot computers which do not need human intervention to optimise settings as per conditions.
In coming years, we can expect improved auto pilots with better algorithms and more data inputs will steer vessels more efficiently, The global Marine Autopilot market is estimated at $XX Billion in 2022, growing at –% CAGR till 2030.
Introducing a New Autopilot System from JRC/Alphatron Marine A new autopilot system designed to make ships safer and more effective has been released, according to JRC/Alphatron Marine.The flexible AlphaPilot MFS-VR, which employs speed and draught data, is appropriate for a variety of vessel types, including workboats, rapid crew tender vessels, fishing boats, tugboats, pleasure ships, and more.
This new pilot can be retrofitted to older versions or any other autopilot as a replacement for the AlphaSeaPilot MFC and MFA system.The employment of an automatic system to steer a ship is known as autopilot. By minimizing the large angle rudder movements required to maintain a steady course, using an autopilot can save fuel usage.
A type-approved, speed-adaptive, and wheel-marked autopilot system is the new MFS-VR. It has been specially type approved for High-Speed Craft (HSC) that complies with ISO-16329 and may be utilized for vessels up to 30 knots (non-High-Speed Craft), giving it an overall speed application range for vessels up to 70 knots.
The entire system includes a five-inch multicolor touchscreen display with rotary knob for always-smooth operation and a separate distribution box to talk to all required external data signals.The distribution box is next to it, and it features a number of terminals that can be used to directly link various steering systems, including solenoids, thrusters, waterjet control, and proportional valves.
Any commercial or recreational vessel with a single rudder, linked rudders, independent rudders, or azimuth Z-drives layout can have the adaptive AlphaPilot MFS-VR installed on it. The control unit is small enough to fit inside a chair’s armrest.
There are more than 15 vendors in Marine autopilot market. Raymarine, the leader in marine electronics, system comprises a central course computer, a rudder drive unit and a control head.
Furuno offers the Navpilot 500, a microprocessor-based design which provides adaptive learning, enabling the autopilot to progressively enhance its ability.
Navman`s Autopilots can be used with a variety of rudder drive systems to serve a wide variety of vessels.
AutoNav’s autopilot range extends from vessels with 20 length feet to bigger container carrying ships. B&G now owned by Simrad offers three autopilots: h1000(entry level) and the H2000 systems, the Hercules and Hydra.
Simrad’s autopilots are designed for power as wellas sail yachts upto 60 feet. The autopilot is available in two fixed-mount configuration. Simrad has also created a marine autopilot specially adapted for vessels equipped with the Volvo Penta IPS drive.
ComNav`s product range includes the 1420 and 1500, primarily intended for small recreational vessels, the 1201 workboat autopilot and the 1001, 1101, 2001 and 5001.
(Ending September 2021)