Course Description

Course Overview:

• General principles of dynamic positioning
• The elements of a DP system, including:
  • Computers and control elements
  • Position reference systems
  • Heading reference systems
  • Wind sensors and other environmental reference systems
  • Power generation elements
  • Thrusters and maneuvering systems
• Sensors and common position reference systems; their principles of operation, their use, operational merits and limitations
• Practical demonstration and operation of a typical DP system
• DP vessel operations. Hazards associated with certain types of operation
• Power generation, redundancy, and management
• DP watchkeeping, watch handover procedures — including communication and documentation

Training Methodology: DP Maintenance is predominantly theory based with guided practical exercises on a PC-based simulator of the Kongsberg DP system. Each participant will have his/her own DP operator station.

Learning Objectives: Upon completion of DP Maintenance, participants should:

• Have knowledge of the principles of DP.
• Have acquired an understanding of how to set up a DP system.
• Have an understanding of the practical operation of associated equipment, including position reference systems.
• Be able to recognize the various alarm, warning, and information messages.
• Be able to relate the DP installation to the ship system, including power supply, maneuvering facility, available position reference systems, and nature of work.
• Be able to relate DP operations to the existing environmental conditions of wind, sea state, current/tidal stream and vessel movement.

Target Group: Engineers, electro-technical officers, maritime academy cadets, and other users of DP systems.

Assessment: At the end of DP Maintenance, each participant will be tested by the Nautical Institute’s online examination.