ComNav 1500 / 1510 Autopilot - 2 -
1.2 Principle of Operation
The powerful microprocessor in the Distribution Unit accepts heading information
from magnetic or gyro compasses and radio navigation receivers and compares this
against the course set by the Control Head and rudder information as sent by the
Rudder Transmitter. Any difference between the set and actual course is compared
along with the rate of change and trends in change (PID control), to drive the
Pumpset motor or solenoid directional valve, moving the rudder as necessary to
return the vessel back to course. The sensitivity to course errors and amount of
correction are user adjustable to suit different vessels under changing sea
conditions. Factory default settings establish a basis for normal steering and may be
further optimized as necessary. During set up procedures, the compass is
automatically compensated and installation errors such as reversed rudder feedback
and reversed Pumpset wiring or piping are automatically diagnosed and corrected.
During this procedure the rudder speed is automatically optimized. This greatly
reduces installation calibration and sea trials time while eliminating possible
Autopilot malfunction.
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