Correction of ships’ steering angle for safe maneuvering against strong winds using microcontroller

Abstract

The maritime industry, responsible for approximately 80% of global trade volume, faces significant challenges posed by adverse weather conditions, particularly strong winds. Over-steering in such conditions increases the risk of capsizing, leading to substantial economic and human losses. This research presents the development of a microcontroller-based system designed to adjust ship steering angles in real-time, accounting for wind conditions and enhancing navigational safety. The system integrates various sensors, including wind speed and direction transducers, gyro modules, and GPS receivers, to continuously monitor both environmental conditions and navigational parameters. Data collected from these sensors are processed by a microcontroller, which utilizes a developed mathematical model to assess the impact of wind forces on the ship’s motion. Based on this assessment, the model calculates the necessary steering angle adjustments to counteract the effects of wind forces, ensuring stable and safe maneuvering. Key factors considered in the model include wind force, centrifugal force, and heel angle, providing a comprehensive evaluation of ship stability under varying wind conditions. The system is designed to be compatible with existing steering mechanisms, ensuring cost-effectiveness and ease of implementation. Simulations demonstrate the system’s ability to predict and correct steering angles accurately, significantly reducing the risk of over-steering and capsizing. Rigorous testing has validated the system’s performance, showing substantial improvements in navigational safety under strong wind conditions. The proposed solution offers a robust method for enhancing maritime safety, protecting both crew and cargo.