Volvo Penta develops automatic yacht mooring system

Volvo Penta develops automatic yacht mooring system

This innovative system, which will launch in 2020, Volvo Penta tested the other day in Gothenburg, Sweden. A test of the system was filmed from multiple angles to show how a technology-equipped 68ft yacht would “dock” on its own in a very narrow space between two racing yachts. Volvo Ocean Race 65.

The presentation of a groundbreaking technology epitomizes what Volvo Penta calls his philosophy "Easy Boating", whose goal is to make yachting simple and accessible to more people. The key to this new technology is the joystick-controlled maneuvering system. Volvo Penta IPSdescribed by the company as a "complete and integrated powerplant" that controls everything from the helm station, through the engine, down to the propellers. "

Automatic system developed Volvo Penta, was created to solve the problem of sudden changes in wind and current conditions during mooring, as well as in difficult mooring conditions in a crowded marina. With this technology, all this will become

much easier, thanks to the sensitivity of the system to the slightest changes in combination with sensors and the most modern navigation system. The system provides not only easy and safe mooring, but just as safely, provides an automatic exit from the marina.

Volvo Penta develops automatic yacht mooring system

Automatic mooring is possible thanks to the built-in electronic ship control system (EVC), which makes steering and drive calculations based on the actual position of the boat and four sensors located at the intended mooring point.

“Mooring is one of the most difficult maneuvers in boat handling, and making the mistake of doing this maneuver can create not just a difficult situation, but a costly and dangerous situation. Our system IPS has made docking very successful in itself, and the new automatic docking feature makes the process even easier. Its sensors and on-board computers react to changes in wind and current conditions within milliseconds, introducing micro-adjustments to the power and angle of rotation of the drives. IPSto keep the boat on its intended route to its destination. If necessary, the mooring process can be suspended, and the system will keep the boat in place, even if the current changes, "the president says. Volvo Penta Björn Ingemanson.

How the automatic mooring system works Volvo Penta

The automation of the docking process consists of three distinct stages. First, when a boat approaches its yacht position in the marina, the system recognizes that it has entered “its own zone” and sends a signal to the skipper that it is ready to moor. Once the skipper initiates the final leg, the system uses a combination of GPS and sensors, both on board and additional sensors at the yacht's mooring point, to automatically “park” the boat in its place.

It is important to understand that the system is not designed to operate autonomously. While the system will also use audible sensors that provide collision warning and avoidance, the company emphasizes that the skipper must remain at the helm during the docking process and be ready to intervene if necessary.

At the time of the system's launch on the market, yacht owners will themselves install the sensors to their permanent places in the marina, but in the future it is planned that the marinas themselves will implement this system at the mooring sites as a standard option to ensure comfort and safety, both for boats and and for skippers.

Another feature of this system is that it will be available not only for the latest boats equipped with IPSbut a modified version for earlier engines is also planned.

Fountaine Pajot motor yachts with Volvo Penta IPS engine:

• Fountaine Pajot MY 44
• Fountaine Pajot MY 40

Last but not least, an automatic mooring system will be integrated into the app. Volvo Penta Easy Connectwhich will allow yacht owners to check if the nearest marina is equipped with the appropriate technology.

25.06.2018