The emerald isle

January 9th, 2012 by JCB
Posted in Pilotage News, Technical and Training | No Comments »

Trials of an enhanced Portable Pilot Unit that can run off an iPad have been completed in Dublin. The tests are part of the Brussels-funded Safeport project being co-ordinated by UK consultants BMT.

The unit has been developed to use advanced satellite communications to ease vessel traffic management. Safeport is looking at being able to deliver more accurate, secure and reliable navigation and positioning information to the pilot to ensure safer and more efficient navigation and berthing.

Vessels participating in the system share their planned routes and schedules with vessel traffic management, or request a route for them. These are then validated to ensure safe compliance with any rules, and that the piloted ship does not interfere with other vessels.