Preparation and change over. Preparation and change over of the engine for the bridge control should be made in accordance with the instructions issued by the engine builder. The following points should be noted: The pump station for the hydraulic amplifier is started to provide oil pressure in the amplifier.
The automatic stop piston valve must be turned to the "Service" position.
Control Panel.
Check that the test telegraph switches on the mimic diagram are in the "Normal" position.
Check also that the switch in the engine speed test unit is in the "Tacho" position. If this switch is left in the "Test" position, the unit lamp will light up. If a start attempt is made, registration of the engine's turning will not take place and the tacho and repeated start supervision unit (TRS) will register the missing tacho signal, and after 6 sastart blocking and a tacho failure alarm will be initiated. If the control system is not furnished with a TRS Unit, starting air will be admitted until the pressure switch is activated.
The overspeed, slow turning, load program and reversing level switches on the mimic diagram are to be placed in the "On" normal position in order to incorporate these functions.
Check with the aid of incorporated voltmeter that all necessary voltages are present.
Check that the power supply switch is in the "Normal" position. If it is in the "Battery" position, the system will still be able to work, but normal running calls for the switch in the "Normal" position. Remember to press button if a change over from "Battery" to "Normal" becomes necessary.
Examine whether any of the lamps in the signal panel for emergency are lit up. If some are lit, the indicated fault should be remedied.
Check whether the safety panel shows any alarms or any shut- or slow-down channels. The lamps in the panel are extinguished under normal conditions. If an alarm occurs, the lamps will light up strongly. If a channel has been "pushed" out of working order, the lamp will continue to light up weakly provided there is no alarm on the channel. If an alarm occurs on a channel, the lamp will also light up strongly in this condition.
When these preparations have been carried out the system is ready for automatic control.
Control Panel.
Check that the test telegraph switches on the mimic diagram are in the "Normal" position.
Check also that the switch in the engine speed test unit is in the "Tacho" position. If this switch is left in the "Test" position, the unit lamp will light up. If a start attempt is made, registration of the engine's turning will not take place and the tacho and repeated start supervision unit (TRS) will register the missing tacho signal, and after 6 sastart blocking and a tacho failure alarm will be initiated. If the control system is not furnished with a TRS Unit, starting air will be admitted until the pressure switch is activated.
The overspeed, slow turning, load program and reversing level switches on the mimic diagram are to be placed in the "On" normal position in order to incorporate these functions.
Check with the aid of incorporated voltmeter that all necessary voltages are present.
Check that the power supply switch is in the "Normal" position. If it is in the "Battery" position, the system will still be able to work, but normal running calls for the switch in the "Normal" position. Remember to press button if a change over from "Battery" to "Normal" becomes necessary.
Examine whether any of the lamps in the signal panel for emergency are lit up. If some are lit, the indicated fault should be remedied.
Check whether the safety panel shows any alarms or any shut- or slow-down channels. The lamps in the panel are extinguished under normal conditions. If an alarm occurs, the lamps will light up strongly. If a channel has been "pushed" out of working order, the lamp will continue to light up weakly provided there is no alarm on the channel. If an alarm occurs on a channel, the lamp will also light up strongly in this condition.
When these preparations have been carried out the system is ready for automatic control.
The Bridge Manoeuvring System (BMS) is a critical component for the safe and efficient operation of ships. Its daily use involves several key tasks and procedures to ensure optimal performance and navigational safety. Here are the typical daily tasks associated with the BMS:
1. Pre-Departure Checks
- System Checks: Ensure all components of the BMS, including steering gear, propulsion controls, and thrusters, are operational.
- Communication Systems: Verify that communication systems between the bridge and engine room are functioning properly.
- Navigation Equipment: Check the functionality of radar, GPS, ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System), and AIS (Automatic Identification System).
2. Monitoring During Operation
- Continuous Monitoring: Keep a close watch on all BMS indicators and alarms. Ensure that the propulsion and steering systems are responding correctly to commands.
- Engine Performance: Monitor engine parameters such as RPM, fuel consumption, and temperature.
- Position Tracking: Regularly check the vessel's position against the planned route using GPS and other navigation aids.
3. Regular Testing
- Steering Gear Tests: Conduct routine tests of the steering gear to ensure it can be operated from all control positions.
- Alarm Tests: Test alarms related to the BMS to ensure they are functioning and audible throughout the vessel.
- Emergency Systems: Verify the readiness of emergency steering systems and backup power supplies.
4. Record Keeping
- Log Entries: Maintain detailed records of all BMS operations, including any deviations from normal operation, alarms, and corrective actions taken.
- Maintenance Logs: Record any maintenance performed on the BMS and schedule regular maintenance as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
5. Communication and Coordination
- Bridge Team Coordination: Ensure clear and effective communication among bridge team members, especially during manoeuvres such as docking, undocking, and navigating through narrow channels.
- Engine Room Coordination: Maintain constant communication with the engine room to ensure smooth operation and immediate response to any issues.
6. Training and Familiarization
- Crew Training: Conduct regular training sessions for the bridge crew on the operation and troubleshooting of the BMS.
- Drills: Perform regular emergency drills, including scenarios involving BMS failures, to ensure the crew is prepared for any situation.
7. Safety and Compliance
- Adherence to Procedures: Follow standard operating procedures and safety protocols at all times.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the BMS operations comply with international maritime regulations, including SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and MARPOL (Marine Pollution) conventions.
8. Post-Arrival Checks
- System Shutdown: Properly shut down the BMS components that are not needed while the ship is in port.
- Post-Operation Review: Conduct a review of the BMS performance during the voyage and address any issues that were encountered.
The daily use of the Bridge Manoeuvring System involves a combination of monitoring, testing, coordination, and record-keeping to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. By adhering to these practices, the bridge team can maintain high standards of safety and performance, thereby contributing to the overall success of maritime operations.
