The dynamic positioning of ships: the problems solved?

DP systems have continued to develop in an attempt to reduce the control problems inherent in trying to control a ship´s position. These improvements are commensurate with advances in technology in particular the capacity and the speed of the computing power available. It is expected that this development will continue and that many new applications found for DP will create new problems to solve. The action of the owners to form an association has proved to be of benefit to all DP vessels in improved training, operation of vessels and reduced downtime. It has overcome many of the operational problems. The problem of thruster reliability is being addressed now and will hopefully be solved. Through the association´s initiatives it is hoped that they can continue to resolve the problems raised by DP, now and as it develops in the future.