Navigation
Navigation equipment is utilized by nautical navigators and pilots to facilitate and make their operations match the current rules. It’s essential to operations and the primary objective of navigation is to determine the present location and compute the speed, direction, and other pertinent information necessary to reach the intended port or destination.
Ever since the establishment of IMCO, the former IMO (International Maritime Organization), it has adopted existing global regulations and introduced a fresh set of measures in the shape of conventions, recommendations, and other devices. IMO has also released numerous resolutions and codes covering a wide range of topics, such as navigation guidelines and performance criteria for navigational and radio communication equipment installed on ships.
Belga Marine can help you match the current regulation and improve your vessel’s performance. Check our portfolio below:
Marine Radar
Marine radars are electronic devices installed on vessels that utilize either X band or S band antennas. Their primary function is to detect other vessels and land obstacles in the surrounding water surface, which helps in providing essential information like the distance and direction for navigation and avoiding collisions. The radars work by emitting a narrow beam of microwaves from a rotating antenna, which scans the water surface surrounding the ship up to the horizon. Targets are detected by the reflected microwaves, and a display screen generates a picture of the ship’s surroundings. The presence of radar is crucial for safe sea navigation and compliance with IMO resolutions.
Automatic Identification System (AIS)
The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a tracking system that is utilized on ships within a short distance of the coast. Its main function is furnishing identification and positioning data for ships and land-based stations. The objective of this system is to aid in identifying vessels, facilitate target tracking, support search and rescue operations, simplify the exchange of information, and provide supplementary data to enhance situational awareness, as stated in resolution A.1106(29) of IMO
Voyage Data Recorder (VDR & SVDR)
In accordance with the regulations adopted in the year 2000, passenger ships and other ships with a gross tonnage of 3000 or more, constructed on or after 1 July 2002, are obligated to carry voyage data recorders (VDRs) to aid in accident investigations. VDR is a data recording system, designed for all vessels that are required to meet the requirements of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations set forth by the IMO resolution A.861(20). This system collects data from various sensors on board the vessel, digitizes, compresses, and stores the information in an externally mounted protective storage unit. “S-VDR” stands for “Simplified Voyage Data Recorder”.
Electronic Chart Display & Information System (ECDIS)
The Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) is a customized digital navigation computer that provides an alternative to traditional paper charts and meets the requirements of the IMO. This system stores Electronic Navigation Charts (ENCs) and/or Raster Charts that present all relevant geographic data necessary for a crew to navigate a voyage. Compared to traditional navigation tools, ECDIS charts often integrate more comprehensive data and automate various essential functions.
Gyrocompass & Autopilots
A gyrocompass is a pivotal tool in navigation that employs a rapidly rotating disc to utilize the rotation of the Earth to determine the geographical direction of the. This non-magnetic compass is recognized as one of the seven fundamental methods to determine the heading of a vessel. For marine vehicles, the directional signals from the gyrocompass are received by the autopilot system which automatically manages the helm to ensure accurate navigation. Both types of equipment comply with IMO regulations.
