“A device, designed to satisfy specific objectives, which mimics part of a real situation in order to allow an operator to practice, and/or demonstrate competence in an operation in a controlled environment.”
Dr. Michael L. Barnett, PhD., BSc, MNI
Benefits of using a Simulator?
1. Simulation saves money
While simulators are expensive, they are much cheaper than buying a real ship;
No need to hire a full complement of officers and crew; and
No need for consumables such as expensive fuels, lubricating oils etc…
2. Simulation saves time
No need to travel from point of origin to destination which could take hours, days, weeks or even months; and
With simulators, it will only take minutes to set up the scenario
3. Total control
For Bridge Simulators:
You can have rain or snow anytime;
You can change the size and type of ships;
You can have day or night time, dusk or dawn simulation;
You can have fair or stormy weather; clear or restricted visibility;
You can change and re-arrange the position of Own Ship and target ships; and
You can choose the Sea Areas(e.g. Malacca Strait, Dover Strait, Shanghai River etc.) anywhere in the world in a matter of seconds
For Engine Room Simulators:
You can choose the initial condition of the Engine Room whether Deadship, In-Port or Oceangoing/Underway; and
You can insert machinery trouble for the trainees to rectify to name a few.
You can start, pause, record and playback the scenario, create, edit, copy and delete scenarios.
4. Absolutely safe
NO problem if you collide;
NO problem if you run aground;
NO problem if your boiler explodes; and
NO problem if you have a dangerous bump with the pier during a docking maneuver; or with another ship during ship-to-ship operation.
5. Repeatability
- You can repeat the exercise over and over until the lesson is learned
6. The simulator can be used for training, assessment, research and accident investigation
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation(BSMT), Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering(BSMarE) and TESDA Training Regulations for Maritime.
Based on the Revised Curriculum for Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSMarE) and in compliance with CHED Memorandum Order # 67 series of 2017, in lieu of an actual equipment which will be utilized for both BSMT and BSMarE courses and to address the requirement under the Training Regulations of TESDA pertaining to Maritime Sector, a simulator may be utilized to demonstrate some of the competencies in Parts A and B of the STCW Code. One such producer that complies with the above-mentioned requirement is the Simulator Technologies Scientific Center (STSTC).
Simulator Technologies Scientific Center (STSTC)
STSTC is a global company, headquartered in Singapore, with a R&D center in Europe and a worldwide distribution network. We offer a full range of marine simulators for STCW training and certification. STSTC has extensive experience in simulation technologies and product development. We are a member of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) and the Association of Singapore Marine Industries (ASMI).
STSTC provides a complete solution for STCW training and certification. Our product range extends from Desktop software to Full-Mission integrated systems.
Decades of experience and research has placed STSTC at the forefront of simulator technologies and product development. We create value for our clients and partners through affordable, innovative, and reliable solutions and remain a trustworthy partner for our customers within the global maritime simulation training and certification fields.
NAVIGATION
STSTC NTS-Pro 6000 is a family of Navigational simulators, including Full Mission Ship handling simulator, Steering simulator, Fishing simulator, ARPA and ECDIS simulator. It is a DNV Class A approved solution, with up to 360-degree visualization system projected on flat or cylindrical screens or LCD displays. Interfaces are proprietary hardware and are all in-house made and designed.
FULL MISSION BRIDGE SIMULATOR
Can be utilized for the following:
◦ Bridge Team Management
◦ Ship Handling (integrated with ERS)
◦ ARPA/Radar training and certification
◦ ECDIS training and certification
◦ Pilot training and assessment
◦ Competence assessment
◦ Harbour/terminal exercising and modelling
◦ Naval exercises
Video Link:
STEERING SIMULATOR
STSTC Steering simulator is an affordable tool for training of shipboard bridge operation for various simulated scenarios in navigation and collision avoidance tasks. It is easily upgradable solution for the customers who plan to investment in future expansion of simulator facility.
NTS-Pro 6000 Steering Simulator can also be used as part of Multifunction classroom (MFC) for ARPA and ECDIS training and certification. Simulator equipped with real hardware controls, that are the same what used in Full mission bridge simulator. The simulator can be used as a Stand-alone or Networked solution.
DESKTOP SIMULATOR
STSTC Desktop Navigation simulator is flexible training solution adaptable for various training environment. NTS-Pro 6000 Desktop simulator provides same functionality as our full scale training systems. The student workstation can be configured for number of different combination between main modules of ARPA/ECDIS/CONNING/VISUALS. STSTC unique design tabletop Steering console equipped with hardware controls dramatically increase reality of the simulation. Tabletop replica of ARPA/Radar keyboard and VHF handset are compliment to this cost-effective training solution. Operation is done through touch screens and hardware controls or mouse/computer keyboard. The simulator can be used as Stand-alone of Networked solution.
RADAR/ARPA TRAINING
STSTC NTS-Pro 6000/ARPA simulator is the ultimate solution for Radar/ARPA training. Bespoke radar scenes of any area in the world are available on the customer’s request. Simulation of widely used JRC/FURUNO radars together with replica of radar keyboard, provides realistic training. A wide range of realistic effects is simulated; shaded areas, loss of targets in heavy sea, radar picture change depending on ship’s rolling and pitching, echo-signals of different ranges depending on geometry and reflection capability of a shore line. The simulator can be used as a Stand-alone or Networked solution.
Radar simulation taking in to account the following parameters:
◦ earth geodesic data and geometry of simulated area;
◦ size and position of objects;
◦ antenna location and size of radar reflective surface;
ECDIS TRAINING
STSTC NTS-Pro 6000/ECDIS is a Type-approved solution for ECDIS training. With mandatory introduction of ECDIS for SOLAS vessels, ECDIS operation training becomes compulsory. The STSTC ECDIS Simulator is fully compliant with the latest performance standards for shipborne navigation equipment.
The simulator can be supplied in various configurations, starting from PC-based software suitable for shipboard training to the large scale classroom multi-function networked solution. A powerful instructor station has a built-in assessment module to ensure the quality of training.
Main Features:
◦ Stand-alone or MFC Network configuration;
◦ On-screen control for maneuvering and operation; ◦ Several options for DNV-GL Type approved ECDIS are available;
ENGINE
The ERT-6000 Full Mission Engine Room Simulator is an INTERACTIVE AND INTELLIGENT TRAINING SOLUTION designed for the training and certification of Marine engineers in Watch keeping and the Operation Management of Main engine and Auxiliary systems.
STSTC ERT-6000 simulates Propulsion, Electrical and Auxiliary systems. It provides Engine Room functionality for both 2 and 4 stroke types of main engines, with reduction gearing and controllable pitch propeller.
The Interactive 3D virtual reality module simulates actual equipment used on board. Students are able to move through a 3D environment to perform all necessary actions related to machinery operation and watch keeping. The module uses a multi-speaker 3D setup in order to provide a realistic sound environment.
FEATURES AND APPLICATION
◦ Familiarization with engine room environment and functionality
◦ Main engine and auxiliary equipment operation and watch keeping
◦ Operation and procedures during maneuvering
◦ Fuel saving and energy conservation
◦ Alarm and safety systems and emergency operation
◦ Vessel resource management
The ERT-6000 provides seamless integration with the NTS Pro-6000 Full mission bridge simulator. The simulator is equipped with a powerful, built-in Assessment module suitable for evaluation of student performance.
CONFIGURATION AND ARCHITECTURE
◦ Stand-alone and Networked solution
◦ Full mission with realistic hardware panels and controls
◦ Propulsion plant and Monitoring systems
◦ Electrical Power plant and Auxiliary machinery
◦ HD 3D Virtual Reality module
◦ Library of various MAN B&W engine models
◦ Interactive algorithm of operation
Realistic simulation of vessel’s interior to improve efficiency of training. Certified by DNV-GL for Class A training operation.
PHYSICAL REALISM OF CBT PLATFORM
Efficacy of Engineers training depends on physical realism of the Engine room simulator. In traditional ERS CBT setup, critical hardware elements are missing in the classroom. STSTC developed ERS Tabletop console equipped with actual hardware controls and gauges to improve performance of ERS training. Compact Tabletop console can be easily mounted on almost any table and connect to ERT-6000 via USB interface. For fraction price of Full mission system, STSTC ERT-6000 CBT solution provides same hardware controls and functionality for Engineers training and certification. Scalability of STSTC simulators allows customers to upgrade for Full mission in the next year, gradually expanding their training facility. ERT-6000 Engine room simulator is DNV certified affordable solution for Engineers training.
GMDSS
The STSTC GMDSS simulator is CTS-Pro 6000 designed for training and certification under the requirements of STCW (2010) and IMO Model Course 1.25. The simulator is suitable for GOC and ROC training and can be used for SAR and VTS operator training. With fourth generations product development and quality confirmed by multiple type approvals, CTS-Pro 6000 is an ultimate tool for GMDSS training and certification. Type-approved by DNV-GL, Class NK and various national authorities.
CONFIGURATION
CTS-Pro 6000 can be configured with a number of options to cover various needs and requirements. The stand-alone option is suitable for familiarisation and self-study purposes. Networked Basic configuration is designed for large classes of up to 32 Student workstations. Enhanced Networked configuration consisting of hardware replica of real GMDSS equipment, including full-size or compact consoles. Up to 32 Student stations can be configured for SAR and VTS training.
REALISTIC SIMULATION OF ACTUAL GMDSS EQUIPMENT
Each Student station could be accommodated with a compact console equipped with replica panels resembling actual GMDSS equipment. All hardware is in-house designed/made and reflect all the features and design of actual GMDSS equipment. Consoles and Handsets are USB interfaced.
FEATURES AND APPLICATION
◦ Simulation GMDSS equipment: SAILOR 6000 and FURUNO.
◦ Full-size or compact CTS-Pro 6000 consoles are available.
◦ Seamless integration with NTS Pro 6000 Navigation simulator.
◦ Powerful Instructor station for effective training process.
◦ Simulation of MF/HF/VHF in DSC, Telex, Sat and Telephony communication ship-to-shore.
◦ Simulation of SAR operation with realistic SAR marks and vessels data.
◦ Marine safety information via NAVTEX, HF NBDP and SafetyNET.
◦ Modeling of radio wave propagation realistic background noise imitation.
◦ All messages/logs can be printed on virtual or actual printers.
FISHERY
NTS Pro 6000-F is the ultimate tool for fisherman education and competence development. The system allows students to familiarize and learn how to operate different types of fishing gear, while building understanding of different fishing techniques. Fisherman will learn how to plan fishing campaign, find and catch fish, while handling vessel’s navigation. Combination of highly realistic dynamic fishing algorithms and environmental conditions allows training at different levels. Full Fishing gear control, together with modern fishing equipment simulation and realistic 3D underwater presentation, creates the ultimate tool for fisherman training.
FEATURES AND APPLICATION
STSTC Fishing simulator NTS Pro 6000-F is a part of the extended range of STSTC Navigation simulators family. NTS Pro 6000-F can be delivered either as a stand-alone system or as an integrated module to existing STSTC bridge simulators.
The simulator will increase competence and help with career development for the fisherman who wants to develop skills in navigation and different fishing methods to meet today’s higher standards of fishing.
The NTS Pro 6000-F follows the IMO initiative to increase safety and productivity through implementation of STCW-F requirements, and is certified by DNV-GL to comply with training standards ST-0033, Section 14: Fishery operation
FAMILIARIZATION AND USE OF FISHING EQUIPMENT
The simulator will provides realistic simulation of modern fishing equipment. It simulates acoustic signals and signal propagation under different environmental conditions, including refraction, absorption in the water, doppler effect and others. Familiarisation with fishing equipment in application to fish finding and catching will allow the fisherman to change parameters and control fishing equipment in the most efficient way by using various fishing techniques.
FISH FINDING AND FISHING TRAINING
The simulator will help to familiarize students with various fishing techniques under different environmental conditions pursuing a wide range of objectives:
◦ Search and finding fishing schools by use of equipment
◦ Use of of various fishing gear to catch fish
◦ Vessel maneuvering during fishing operation
◦ Fishing vessel operation training
◦ Fisherman certification and assessment
MASTERING FISHING GEAR
Replicas of actual control panels are used for Sonar and Trawl-master stations.Trawl-master console accommodates all fishing equipment. The simulator provides realistic simulation of various fishing gear, including different kind of trawls, seines, lines, winches and their controls. The end-user will be able to adjust a wide range of parameters including:
◦ Type of trawl, seine and longline
◦ Wire and line length, loading
◦ Board dimensions, position and weight
◦ Trawl dimensions, position, weight and other parameters
◦ Seine length, dimensions, buoyancy and other parameters
◦ Longlines length, section count, hook weight
OUR FLEET
STSTC is expanding its digital assets. Our fleet of fishery vessels is growing fast. 14 vessels of different type are available for fisherman training. Various Longliners, Shrimpers, Trawlers and Seiners are on the list of STSTC Fishery operation simulator.
STSTCs customer database is growing exponentially. They have a global presence with an extensive reference list of installations in Europe, Africa, and Asia. STSTC Product and Services are designed for a wide range of government and private segments. They value customer’s trust, as it is one of the hardest things to earn. It takes years of consistent performance, which gradually increases in complexity and difficulty, before one wins the biggest jobs. They create value for their clients and partners through affordable, innovative, and reliable solutions. Some of the STSTCs customers are listed below.
STSTCs CERTIFICATES
All simulators are DNV-GL/Class NK certified. Select simulators are also certified by various national authorities.
STSTC is a ISO 9001:2015, ISO 18001:2007 and ISO 27001:2013 certified business entity.
References:
- STSTC (October 20, 2021)
