Bridge Arrangement and Navigational Aids

The bridge of a merchant vessel is the command center for all navigational, steering and communication operations.

bridge1 

The centrally positioned bridge is generally positioned towards the top of the superstructure with the clearest view ahead with a minimum of 255 degrees of vision (including at least 22.5 degrees of visibility abaft the beam on both the port and starboard sides).

bridge2 

Adjacent bridge wings extend beyond the main bridge to provide a clear view of the port and starboard sides of the vessel together with with engine, stern and bow thruster controls during docking.

The ship’s bridge is always manned by an officer of the watch, who has the responsibility of manoeuvering the vessel and coordinating with the engine room. In general, an officer and a lookout are required to be present on the bridge.

bridge3

Bridge Layout:

Essential Navigational Aids:

  • Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS): A digital navigation system displaying electronic charts overlaid with real-time vessel position and surrounding data.
  • Radar: Provides a visual representation of the surrounding environment, aiding in collision avoidance and navigation in low-visibility conditions.
  • Automatic Identification System (AIS): Transmits and receives information on other vessels in the vicinity, enhancing situational awareness.
  • Global Positioning System (GPS): Provides highly accurate position data for precise navigation.
  • Gyrocompass: A primary compass unaffected by the ship's magnetism, offering continuous heading information.
  • Echo Sounder: Measures the water depth below the keel, crucial for avoiding grounding.
  • Speed Log: Measures the ship's speed through the water.
  • VHF Radio: Used for vital communication with other vessels and shore stations.

Additional Equipment:

  • Anemometer: Measures wind speed and direction.
  • Magnetic Compass: A backup compass for redundancy.
  • Searchlights: Used for illumination and signaling in low-visibility situations.
  • Communication Consoles: Facilitate communication with the engine room, crew, and external parties.                  
Bridge Design Considerations:

  • Ergonomics: The layout prioritizes ease of use and minimizes fatigue for watch officers during long navigation shifts.
  • Unrestricted Visibility: Large windows ensure a clear panoramic view of the surroundings.
  • Redundancy: Critical equipment has backups to maintain functionality in case of failure.
  • Lighting: Red or filtered white lights with dimming capabilities should be used to maintain visibility at night with anti-glare windows.

Modifié le: lundi 28 octobre 2024, 14:07