QINSy training using Bridge Navigation Simulator

Plymouth University has started to use their full Bridge Navigation Simulator to train the students on the Hydrographic Survey course in QPS QINSy acquisition software.  This exciting, new method of training allows the students both the chance to learn the software in a real-life scenario and to also learn how to steer a vessel along survey lines in different weather scenarios – not as easy as it looks.

The simulator feeds NMEA position, heading, motion and echosounder data strings to QINSy to show the results in real-time as if the students were actually on the University’s own vessel. The students learn how to choose survey lines, automate start/stop recording and to add waypoints and new lines while surveying. The many different and configurable displays that QINSy offers can also be taught from simple helmsman to the real-time 3D point cloud DTM QC displays.

Adam Bolton, Plymouth University’s Support Technician in Hydrography and Ocean Exploration said “The simulator is usually used for training our Navigation students on vessel handling and pilotage but we can effectively run a whole single beam survey in realistic conditions. It’s been really useful for teaching the basics of QINSy online acquisition without having to go to sea.”

9th May 2017