November 2024
A Gyro Compass is a mechanical device used to provide precise directional and heading information, independent of the Earth's magnetic field. Unlike traditional magnetic compasses, the gyro compass relies on the principles of gyroscopic inertia and Earth’s rotation to determine true north, making it a vital tool in Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems and maritime navigation.
GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) refers to any satellite-based navigation system that provides global coverage for positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services. GNSS systems can be used individually or in combination to enhance reliability, accuracy, and availability in maritime and offshore applications.
GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System) is Russia’s counterpart to the American GPS. Developed and operated by the Russian Federation, GLONASS provides global positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services. It is one of the key global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), alongside GPS, Galileo, and BeiDou, ensuring redundancy and diversity in satellite navigation for users worldwide.
Galileo is the European Union's global satellite navigation system, designed to provide highly accurate and reliable positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services worldwide. Developed as a counterpart to the American GPS, Russian GLONASS, and Chinese BeiDou systems, Galileo offers independent capabilities tailored to meet both civilian and governmental needs.
The Follow-Sub or Follow Target function is an advanced feature often integrated into Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems, enabling a vessel to maintain a position relative to a moving target. This capability is commonly used in offshore operations where the vessel must follow an underwater vehicle, such as a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) or other subsea equipment, with precision.
Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA) is a comprehensive document that outlines the potential failure modes of a vessel’s Dynamic Positioning (DP) and associated systems, along with their effects and mitigation strategies. This analysis is critical for ensuring the reliability and safety of DP operations and is often mandated by classification societies as part of the requirements for DP Equipment Class notation.
FMCW (Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave) is a radar technique commonly used in short-range radar systems to measure distances and velocities with high precision. Unlike pulse radar systems, which emit discrete pulses of energy, FMCW systems transmit a continuous signal whose frequency varies over time, allowing for detailed analysis of reflected signals.
A Fixed Pitch (F.P.) Propeller is a type of propeller with non-adjustable blade angles. The thrust magnitude and direction generated by an F.P. propeller are controlled entirely by varying the propeller's rotational speed (RPM) and direction of rotation. While simpler in design compared to controllable pitch propellers, F.P. propellers are widely used due to their reliability and ease of maintenance.
Fixed Azimuth Mode is a functionality associated with Azimuth Thrusters or Azipod Units, in which these propulsion systems are set to a pre-determined azimuth angle. This mode is often used during specific vessel operations requiring stable and controlled thrust configurations to maintain position, heading, or efficiency.
Feedback refers to any data collected by sensors and transmitted to the Dynamic Positioning (DP) system, where it is analyzed and used to adjust computations. Feedback is crucial for maintaining the precision and responsiveness of a DP system, ensuring it can continuously counteract external forces and keep the vessel steady.
