Ship’s course stabilization accuracy improvement by implementing dual-loop control system
This study addresses the problem of ship’s course stabilization accuracy improvement in order to reduce trip distance and fuel consumption. The method is to upgrade autopilot control diagram. Proposed block diagram of a dual-loop control system allows to estimate the effects of disturbances and form the positive feedback transfer function. Dual-loop course control system Matlab/Simulink model was developed in the paper. Mathematical modelling analysis shown the effectiveness of such system in course accuracy improvement by compensating of wind-wave disturbances. In addition, proposed system operation modelling analysis demonstrated ship’s course keeping system response time improvement with the use of estimated disturbance positive feedback loop.