Dedicated integrated aft workstation for OSVs

Kongsberg Maritime has launched, at NorShipping, what it describes as an industry first, an integrated aft bridge workstation, which combines navigation, control and manoeuvring functions in one unit. The K-Master provides access to all major control systems through a new ergonomic design, intended to significantly improve safety and efficiency of manoeuvring operations on OSVs.

“Aft bridge operators are drowning in the amount of activity and flow of navigational and ship systems information. K-Master drastically simplifies the processes while providing secure, optimal bridge awareness for improved safety, and professional, efficient OSV operation,” said Thor Hukkelås, chief engineer and project head for the K-Master workstation.

K-Master is a complete and independent operating station designed to meet strict aft bridge ergonomic considerations regarding the arrangement of working environment, instrumentation and the operability of the equipment itself. Within easy reach of the operator, the K-Master workstation includes interactive interfaces for: dynamic positioning (DP), independent DP joystick, manual thrust control, alarm and monitoring/vessel automation, central bridge alarm system, chart radar, conning display and communication devices.

Integration between subsystems makes it possible to provide functions across the subsystem boundaries, for instance, for system wide mode control tailored to the vessel?s different types of operation, accessible through a condition based user interface. Similar concepts can be used for presentation and/or operation of auxiliary equipment, such as deck lights, window wipers, navigation lights or search lights.

“K-Master consolidates the traditional five or six meter bridge console into literally one operator?s chair, which houses integrated multiple computer consoles in the arm rests and touch-screens with split-screen interfaces. Total ship operation takes place from this chair, with the main information displays close to the seated operator, making the intense nature of ship operation on the aft bridge a more comfortable and less stressful situation,” added Hukkelås.