Multi-Operational Controller Structure for Station Keeping and Transit Operations of Marine Vessels

In this brief, a novel control system structure for integrated dynamic positioning, maneuvering, and transit operation of marine vessels is proposed. The proposed structure is based on supervisory switching control (SSC) using switching logics in conjunction with operator initiated commands. The SSC is a hybrid system consisting of continuous state multi-controllers and discrete state logics that allow switching among the various controllers for the particular operations. The switching between appropriately designed controllers facilitates operations from normal conditions to extreme situations such as severe seas and possible failure situations. Through this, it will be possible to extend the vessel operability under harsh environments, and increase the safety and performance in marine operations with greater fault-tolerance. One demonstrating example of the integrated marine control system verified by experiments is demonstrated.