Simulation Capabilities

PMI uses Transas NaviTrainer 4.60 to drive its two Full-Mission Bridge Simulators. This software is the latest version, which was installed in April 2006. Transas is renowned for its exceptional visual graphics and its in-house hydrodynamic team, which is headed by respected hydrodynamicist Dr. Vladimir Ankodinov. In fact, Transas models are among the best available.

Transas has proven very responsive to customer feedback and as such, their simulation software provides many features not offered by other simulation providers.

Graphics

Transas graphics are acknowledged as the best in marine simulation. Below are examples of the realistic graphics generated at PMI. Click on any of the images below to see an enlarged version.

Valdez, Alaska	Seattle, Washington	Oakland, California
Tacoma, Washington	Moving Clouds	Sun Glare
Snow

Environmental Capabilities

The system provides a realistic display of any weather condition, various atmospheric phenomena, time of the day, visibility and illumination effects, reflection, and glare on the water. Tides and currents can be adjusted, as required, and programmed to change during simulation with the buoys generating current feathers. In addition to overall condition parameters, PMI can set up environmental zones to create very realistic environmental conditions; such as fog banks, local wind and current effects, and local wave effects.

Visual Control Unit

PMI's simulators have a visual control unit so the vessel operator can transfer position to either bridge wing and then tilt or rotate the visual scene to produce a realistic visual perspective. In addition, the viewing point can be transferred to other locations on the vessel, such as the bow or stern. Additionally, binocular view mode can be activated at the press of a button.

Alarm Capability

Alarms can be initiated to simulate an array of system malfunctions; including engine, steering, and navigational aid failures.

Mooring Line Attachments

All vessel models have multiple line attachment points and multiple line type options such as polypropylene, wire, nylon, and dyneema. Each line has its own breaking strain limits and can be individually controlled at the instructor station.

Anchor Response

Vessel models respond appropriately to the use of anchors for standard and dredging anchor maneuvers. Anchor position and forces are displayed and recorded in the log file.

Tug Operations

PMI's simulator offers conventional twin screw, Z-drive, and Voith Schneider tug models that can be operated as ownships or implemented as target vessels for operation from the instructor station. Parameters of bollard pulls available range from 26 to 56 tons; however, virtual force vectors can be applied to simulate any amount of bollard pull in any direction. Z-drive and Voith Schneider tugs can be operated in the indirect mode to generate twice the bollard pull of the tug when operating in the direct mode. Transas tug models interact with vessels based on speed and proximity. PMI's manned tug simulator provides a realistic environment for tug/ship operations when docking, undocking, or escorting.