A hybrid computer study of a dynamic ship positioning system

Dynamic positioning is a method of anchoring a vessel in deep areas of the ocean. The essential components of a dynamic positioning system are a vessel with positioning forces; a position measuring system; a comparator; and a controller. These components position a vessel by interacting with each other and with the environment. Mathematical models define each component of the positioning system. The hybrid computer simulates the positioning system, and the aerodynamic and hydrodynamic forces present on the ocean's surface. This thesis Investigates the excitation/response characteristics of the model for a variety of environmental conditions. Optimum headings with respect to positioning thrust Result for each environmental case. A vessel search algorithm Is developed to locate an optimum heading.Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department o