Volvo launches easy parking system
FEARFUL OF BERTHING MANOEUVRES? WORRY NO MORE...
IN AN EFFORT TO HELP take the stress out of boating, Volvo Penta has unveiled an advanced self-docking system, targeted for launch in 2020. Although the initial system uses the company’s Inboard Performance System (IPS) and is only suitable for powerboats, the technology could be used for yachts in the future too.
The self-docking was demonstrated during the Gothenburg stopover of the Volvo Ocean Race, when a 68ft powerboat manoeuvred itself into a berth between two of the Volvo 65 racing yachts.
The system uses Volvo’s joystick-controlled IPS integrated propulsion system coupled with an electronic vessel control system (EVC). This computes steering and drive calculations in relation to the boat’s actual position using four sensors mounted on the intended berth.
Once the vessel enters a ‘catch zone’, the system sends out a signal to the skipper that it is ready to dock. When the self-docking function is activated, the boat automatically moves into a ‘docking ready’ position using GPS guidance. Then the system uses a combination of GPS and sensors to move the boat automatically into its berth.
“Docking is one of the most challenging boathandling manoeuvres – getting it wrong can be embarrassing, expensive and precarious,” says Bjorn Ingemanson, president of Volvo Penta. “Our IPS system has already taken great strides in making docking easier, and this new self-docking feature takes that process one important stage further. Its sensors and onboard computers react in milliseconds to changing wind and sea conditions, constantly making micro adjustments in power and steering No hands on helm – powerboat berths itself
angle of the IPS drive to keep the boat on its intended course into a safe berth. If necessary, the docking process can be paused, and the system will hold the boat stationary in the water. Even in changing sea conditions it can make the sea appear to stand still.”
Volvo says in the future the system could be integrated with an app to allow crews to check if the nearest marina is equipped with the appropriate self-docking technology.