IBS

Marine IBS (Integrated Bridge System):

 

An Integrated Bridge System (IBS) is a central component of modern marine navigation, consolidating various shipboard navigation and control systems into a single interface. The system integrates data from multiple sources, such as radar, GPS, AIS, gyro compass, and electronic chart systems (ECDIS), to provide the vessel's officers with a streamlined, cohesive means of navigating and controlling the vessel. The goal of IBS is to enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, reduce human error, and optimize decision-making.

 

Key Features of an Integrated Bridge System (IBS):

 

Centralized Control:

The IBS centralizes the operation and monitoring of navigation equipment on the bridge, allowing officers to view data from radar, sonar, speed logs, GPS, and other devices on a unified display.

 

Data Integration:

IBS integrates data from various systems like the gyro compass, autopilot, radar, AIS, ECDIS, and GPS, making it easier for the crew to access and interpret all the relevant navigation data in real-time.

 

User Interface:

The IBS provides a unified user interface, typically featuring multifunctional displays (MFDs), control consoles, and alarm systems, which allows the crew to operate and monitor multiple systems from one location.

 

Automation:

Automation is a key feature of modern IBS, enabling systems such as autopilot and course-keeping systems to work automatically based on input from navigation equipment, reducing crew workload during routine operations.

 

Safety Features:

IBS systems incorporate safety protocols such as collision avoidance, route planning, dynamic positioning, and alarm monitoring, providing real-time warnings about potential hazards or system failures.

 

Remote Control:

Many modern IBS systems allow for remote control of the vessel, enabling navigation and engine management from remote stations on the bridge or other locations aboard the vessel.

 

System Redundancy:

To enhance reliability, IBS systems include redundancy in critical components like power supplies, processors, and displays to ensure the system remains operational even if part of the system fails.

 

Types of Marine IBS:

 

Basic IBS:

Basic IBS systems typically integrate fundamental systems such as radar, gyro compass, and autopilot. These systems provide the essential features for safe navigation but may lack more advanced automation or integration with other systems like ECDIS or AIS.

 

Applications:

Small vessels or older ships that don’t require advanced integration of multiple systems.

 

Advanced IBS:

Advanced IBS systems integrate a wide range of shipboard technologies, including ECDIS, AIS, radar, gyro compass, GPS, autopilot, dynamic positioning systems, and weather routing systems. They also offer greater levels of automation and safety features, such as collision avoidance and alarm systems.

 

Applications:

Large vessels such as cruise ships, tankers, container ships, and military ships that require high levels of integration and operational efficiency.

 

Integrated Navigation System (INS):

An Integrated Navigation System is a sophisticated variation of IBS that combines all navigation-related data into one system, using advanced technologies like Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) and multi-sensor fusion for high-accuracy navigation. It typically integrates radar, sonar, AIS, GPS, gyro, and ECDIS.

 

Applications:

High-precision navigation in demanding environments, including offshore platforms, submarines, and vessels operating in low-visibility conditions.

 

Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) Integrated with IBS:

Some IBS systems are integrated with Dynamic Positioning Systems (DPS), allowing vessels to maintain their position automatically without anchoring, based on inputs from GPS, wind sensors, and motion sensors. This integration is especially useful for offshore operations or vessels operating in areas where anchoring is not feasible.

 

Applications:

Offshore vessels, drilling rigs, and other ships requiring precise station-keeping capabilities.

 

Autonomous IBS (Future Trends):

With the advancement of automation in the maritime industry, future IBS systems are expected to integrate autonomous vessel technology, which will allow the vessel to operate with minimal human intervention. These systems will integrate AI and machine learning algorithms to make real-time decisions and adapt to dynamic maritime environments.

 

Applications:

Autonomous vessels, including cargo ships, ferries, and offshore support vessels.

 

Components of an Integrated Bridge System (IBS):

 

Multi-Function Displays (MFDs):

These displays provide the officer with real-time data from various systems, such as radar, ECDIS, AIS, and GPS, in one view. MFDs can be configured to display different types of information as needed.

 

Radar:

Radar systems are integrated into IBS to provide information about nearby vessels, landmasses, weather, and other obstacles. This is crucial for collision avoidance and safe navigation in congested or low-visibility environments.

 

ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System):

ECDIS displays electronic nautical charts and integrates information from other systems, such as GPS and radar, to provide an up-to-date, digital representation of the vessel's location and its surroundings.

 

Gyro Compass:

A gyro compass is a key part of the IBS, providing reliable and accurate true north heading information that is used for course plotting and steering.

 

Autopilot:

Autopilots in IBS systems enable the vessel to follow a predetermined course automatically. They can also adjust based on real-time inputs, such as weather conditions or course corrections.

 

AIS (Automatic Identification System):

AIS is integrated into IBS to provide information about other vessels in the vicinity. This system broadcasts and receives real-time data such as position, speed, and course from nearby vessels, allowing for better situational awareness and collision avoidance.

 

Engine and Propulsion Control:

IBS can integrate engine and propulsion control systems, allowing the officer to monitor and adjust the vessel's speed, heading, and other key operational parameters from the bridge.

 

Communication Systems:

IBS typically includes integrated communication systems, such as satellite communications and VHF radios, enabling seamless communication between the vessel and external parties, such as port authorities, other vessels, or land-based stations.

 

Benefits of an Integrated Bridge System (IBS):

 

Improved Safety:

IBS enhances safety by providing the crew with accurate and real-time data from various sensors and systems, reducing human error and the potential for accidents. It also offers automatic collision avoidance, alarms, and real-time navigation alerts.

 

Increased Efficiency:

By integrating multiple systems, IBS reduces the need for manual data input and interpretation. The automation of certain functions (e.g., autopilot and dynamic positioning) allows the crew to focus on higher-level tasks, improving operational efficiency.

 

Reduced Workload for Crew:

IBS systems help reduce the cognitive load and workload of the bridge crew by centralizing information, offering intuitive user interfaces, and automating routine tasks like steering and course control.

 

Enhanced Decision-Making:

With integrated systems like ECDIS, radar, AIS, and gyro compass, IBS provides officers with comprehensive, real-time data, aiding in better decision-making, especially in critical situations.

 

Regulatory Compliance:

Many IBS systems comply with international maritime safety standards and regulations, such as the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) convention and IMO guidelines, ensuring the vessel operates safely and within legal requirements.

 

Remote Monitoring and Control:

IBS systems allow for remote monitoring and operation of key vessel systems from multiple locations on the bridge, increasing flexibility and reducing the likelihood of human error.

 

Popular Marine IBS Brands and Models:

 

Furuno:

Furuno is a leading manufacturer of integrated bridge systems, providing high-quality navigation systems for commercial vessels.

Popular Models:

Furuno FAR-3000 (Radar integration for IBS)

Furuno FMD-3200 (Multi-function display for IBS)

 

Kongsberg:

Kongsberg is a global leader in integrated bridge systems and advanced maritime solutions, with offerings tailored to commercial and military vessels.

Popular Models:

Kongsberg K-Bridge (Comprehensive IBS system with radar, ECDIS, and autopilot)

Kongsberg Seastar (Integrated system with dynamic positioning)

 

Raytheon Anschütz:

Raytheon Anschütz is known for its reliable and advanced IBS systems that integrate radar, ECDIS, and autopilot systems.

Popular Models:

Raytheon Anschütz Synapsis (Integrated bridge system with ECDIS and radar)

Raytheon Anschütz Nautikus (Advanced navigation and control system)

 

Wärtsilä:

Wärtsilä offers sophisticated integrated bridge systems that provide seamless data integration and control, used in both commercial and passenger vessels.

Popular Models:

Wärtsilä NACOS (Integrated bridge system with autopilot and ECDIS)

Wärtsilä Versatile (IBS for large commercial vessels)

 

Siemens:

Siemens provides integrated marine navigation systems with a focus on automation and efficiency, suitable for large fleets and offshore operations.

Popular Models:

Siemens T-Bridge (IBS with integrated radar and control)

Siemens NAVOS (Advanced IBS solution with seamless integration)

 

Navico (B&G, Simrad):

Navico, which owns brands like Simrad and B&G, offers high-quality IBS solutions for both recreational and commercial vessels.

Popular Models:

Simrad NX40 (Navigation and control system for recreational vessels)

Simrad GO XSE (Integrated system for small vessels)

 

Transas (Wärtsilä):

Transas (now part of Wärtsilä) offers cutting-edge integrated bridge systems for both commercial and military vessels, known for their user-friendly interfaces.

Popular Models:

Transas Navi-Sailor (Full-fledged IBS with navigation and communication systems)

Transas Navi-Radar (Radar and sensor integration for IBS)

 

Conclusion:

Marine Integrated Bridge Systems (IBS) play a crucial role in modern vessel navigation by centralizing and automating various onboard systems to improve safety, reduce crew workload, and enhance operational efficiency. With components like radar, ECDIS, AIS, autopilot, and dynamic positioning, IBS systems provide a comprehensive solution for modern vessels. Leading brands like Furuno, Kongsberg, Raytheon Anschütz, and Wärtsilä offer a variety of IBS options, catering to different vessel types and operational needs, ranging from basic systems for smaller ships to advanced solutions for large commercial or military vessels.