An autopilot is a crucial piece of navigation equipment used onboard ships to allow automatic control of the vessel’s heading. It allows the officer of the watch to be focussed on other navigation tasks by reducing the requirement for them to constantly steer the ship.
Autopilots are commonly used when sailing out at sea and maintaining a steady course. However it does not fully replace the officer of the watch who must constantly be aware of their position, local traffic, weather and the status of the steering system.
An autopilot is a type of automatic steering system used onboard ships to control the rudder to maintain a set heading. The heading is set by the operator and compared to the actual heading of the ship.
If the ship drifts off course the autopilot will send a signal to the steering system to adjust the rudder to bring the ship back on correct heading.
Autopilots use a closed loop feedback system. Constantly comparing the set heading and making adjustments as needed.
Process
This process will continue to happen to ensure the ship stays on course even if there are disturbances like wind, waves and currents.
The exact modes available depend on the vessel’s equipment and installation.
Modern autopilots have a number of settings which can be adjusted to improve performance.
These can be adjusted according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the conditions of the ship.
Benefits
While autopilots make steering easier there are some limitations. They may not react correctly to sudden disturbances, failures or fast changes in navigational conditions.
The officer of the watch should:
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety procedures.
An autopilot is an essential piece of equipment for modern navigation. Using heading devices, a controller and steering gear it is able to constantly detect any course changes and make appropriate corrections by adjusting the rudder. The closed loop feedback system means the ship will stay on a consistent heading and makes steering less of a workload. However to navigate safely the system must be operated correctly, regularly maintained and monitored by the bridge team.
The main function is to automatically keep the ship on the set heading by controlling the
rudder.
They operate on a closed loop feedback control principle. Comparing the set heading with the actual heading and making corrections.
A standard heading mode autopilot will only control the steering. Extra functions may be provided by a separate navigation or propulsion system.
Yes, the ship can be manually steered using the steering system and helmsman.
No, the officer of the watch is responsible for navigating safely and must constantly be aware of the vessel.
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