The radar on a ship is like the captain’s eyes, helping with navigation and collision avoidance in poor visibility or busy waters. Over the past 30 years, the core technology of radar systems—such as the antenna and transceiver units—has remained largely unchanged. However, the display technology has evolved significantly. While color radars with computer-style displays have emerged, no fully integrated computer-based radar system has yet reached the market (most display units still rely on PCs). What direction will radar technology take in the coming century? This article explores the latest advancements and key products from Transas in radar innovation.
With the new SOLAS Chapter 5 regulations coming into effect, marine radars are set for a complete overhaul. Starting in 2002, tens of thousands of marine radars worldwide will need to be replaced. This update coincides with two other major developments: all ships over 300 tons must install VHF transponders by 2002, and the IMO member states will produce three global electronic navigation charts, offering new opportunities for radar integration.
During this radar replacement period, recent research and practical applications have introduced a new concept: an advanced ARPA radar can be built using a standard PC, a common display, and a specialized radar signal processing card. Ship operators now use second-generation Radar Integrator Boards that plug directly into a PC’s PCI slot. These boards connect to the radar antenna and process video signals, track moving targets, and control the transceiver. Computers equipped with these cards can overlay radar images with vector electronic charts and share data across the ship via networking. They can also process information from VHF transponders or AIS systems and store navigational data on hard drives, including detailed radar images and target movements over time.
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has been working on radar standards, allowing some Electronic Navigation Chart (ENC) elements to appear on radar screens, such as shorelines, safety zones, buoys, and lighthouses. Based on extensive experience, it's estimated that these elements make up about 70% of ENC data. However, displaying full ENC data on radar screens remains challenging due to size limitations. No existing radar can simultaneously show both radar images and ENC data, but integrating them would greatly enhance safe navigation by improving situational awareness.
Superimposing radar targets onto electronic charts allows crews to better understand moving objects and predict their behavior. For example, identifying buoys and hazards on the chart helps avoid collisions. Currently, traditional ARPA systems lack this capability, making it harder to anticipate target movements. With the introduction of AIS in 2002, radars must now integrate transponder data. Only a few ECDIS systems currently support this, but future radars will need to include this feature regardless of formal regulations.
Displaying transponder information on radar reduces the captain’s workload by providing real-time data like ship speed, heading, and cargo details. It also helps locate buoys and avoid dangerous areas. When combined with ENC, radar and electronic charts complement each other, enhancing navigation accuracy.
Many shipping companies have already implemented functions on PCs that were previously unavailable on radar systems. For instance, radar images can be transmitted across a ship’s network, allowing the captain to view charts and radar data from his cabin. Multiple users can access the same data, improving coordination.
Modern systems can compress and store radar data efficiently, enabling long-term recording and playback. This is invaluable for accident investigations, as recorded radar images provide an accurate, unalterable record of events. These features are becoming essential for improving safety and reducing navigational errors.
The IEC and industry leaders are developing Integrated Navigation Systems (INS), combining radar, ECDIS, and other tools. These systems allow captains to customize their setup based on environmental conditions, enhancing decision-making and reducing risks.
In summary, updating marine radars after 2002 offers a cost-effective and flexible solution. Replacing only the outdated display unit with a modern PC and radar signal processing card provides significant performance improvements. This upgrade not only ensures compliance with new regulations but also enhances navigation safety, saves time, and reduces fuel consumption.
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