Hanse Smart Mooring System - manoeuvring by means of a joystick

Manoeuvring by means of a joystick thanks to the coordination of the bow and stern thrusters and the main drive. HanseYachts has chosen its Hanse 445 and 496 models to be the first to benefit from the brand-new SMS joystick-based manoeuvring system as from the start of the 2011-12 model year. This system has been developed internally by HanseYachts in collaboration with partners from the industry.

Why develop SMS?
The decision by HanseYachts to develop this manoeuvring support system was based on the results of a scientific study into the topic of “Stress when sailing”. One of its findings was that manoeuvring operations in particular, such as docking and undocking, placed helmspersons under high levels of stress. The findings also showed that larger yachts exceeding 12 metres in length were often helmed by small crews – married couples in many cases. Such yachts are also increasingly being helmed by less experienced persons who find themselves out of their depth when manoeuvring their yacht. This often leads to damage in adverse weather conditions in narrow, busy harbours.

Increased safety and reduced stress levels on board
The field tests for the study were conducted with a Hanse 430 provided by HanseYachts. One of the key findings was that an integrated manoeuvring support system contributes to safety and helps to reduce stress levels on board. This was the impetus for us to develop a system that tackles precisely this issue. However, we wanted to develop a system that is reliable, easy to install in our yachts and, above all, consists of standard components, to enable our customers to make use of service infrastructure around the globe. It was also important for the system to be as intuitive and easy to use as possible. The entire development process, from the initial stages right through to readiness for series production, took 18 months.

Very easy handling
Three system-components, sideways pushing bow- and sternthrusters and the main drive with forward and reverse thrust, are united in a joystick control. Of course, all elements are as well independently operable. To Enable / Disable the SMS system is on the joystick itself, the operation is signaled by colored LEDs. Without active use of the steering wheel, the engine control (gear / throttle) and bow and sternthruster, the yacht is maneuvered with the joystick alone. All movements (full rotations, bow or stern thrust, transverse travel, each also with an additional advance or reverse thrust) are generated by the joystick. The rudder is detected, the normal motor control is disabled.

Source: bymnews.com & hanseyachts.com


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