Operating manual ALPHASEAPILOT MFC Issue 1.1 Page 56 of 84
ALPHASEAPILOT MFC
2.29 Calibration of Adaptive Steering Performance vs Speed
The Speed Adaptive operating mode is based on the ‘capture’ of known steering characteristics
over a range of operating conditions which can be used as the initial (start) conditions when the
Autopilot is engaged.
Once engaged, further adaptive measures are taken to automatically adjust control parameters
geared to changes in speed, draft and sea state etc. to maintain optimum steering performance.
In addition, Override Controls are also calibrated against speed to ensure that potentially
dangerous angles of rudder are not inadvertently applied – particularly where High Speed Craft
(HSC) operation is involved.
NB. Where possible, it is strongly recommended that Adaptive data is taken at 3 speed levels
(although 2 will be accepted). The speeds should reflect minimum likely for Autopilot Control,
Normal working/cruising speed and maximum speed.
2.29 (i) Adaptive Calibration Input Requirements:-
(a) Optimum steering performance should have been assessed and achieved by
manual adjustment of PID controls via the CONTROLS menu per sections 2.19 to
2.25.
(b) Speed Through the water (STW) input data must be available (An alarm will be
generated if Adaptive calibration or mode entry is attempted in the absence of
STW input data).
2.29 (ii) Calibration of Power Steer Override Controls vs Speed:-
(a) Use the Autopilot STANDBY key to enter the Standby mode. Enter controls menu
by pressing CONTROLS Key.
(b) Press the CONTROLS and LIMITS keys simultaneously for a period of 5 seconds
to enter the Calibration mode confirmed by the ADAPT box flashing ‘CAL1’.
(c) Set the speed of the vessel at the lowest realistic working speed likely for
Autopilot control and – using manual steering control(s) – enter and maintain the
vessel into a turn at the maximum safe level (rate of turn) commensurate with
this speed.
(d) Use the CONTROLS key for a period of 5 seconds to ’capture’ the Rudder
angle/speed data for future Autopilot Override control use confirmed when
completed by the flashing display message ‘CAL2’.
(e) Repeat (c) and (d) at normal working speed and maximum speed (CAL2 and
CAL3 respectively) to capture and store the related Rudder/Speed data.
(f) Enter controls menu by pressing CONTROLS key and ensure ADAPT value box is
flashing. Simultaneous 5 second CONTROLS and LIMITS key operation to exit
the calibration mode.
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