BoatCruiser and NavCruiser PRO use a scientifically modelled boat simulator to demonstrate how the built-in NavSim autopilot tracks various Routes. The simulator runs faster than real-time, allowing the captain to quickly simulate into the future. Various simulation options can be set by accessing the Simulation tab under BoatCruiser/NavCruiser PRO Options). In the future, NavSim Technology Inc. will provide custom simulation of boats based on user specifications.
The boat simulation also uses NavSim's guidance system algorithm, which presently is configured to control the simulated boat by making turns slightly before a Waypoint is met. This way, the momentum of the boat can be used to carry it smoothly through turns with minimal rudder movement. Within the Simulation tab under BoatCruiser/NavCruiser PRO Options the tightness of the turns that the controller will make can be set in terms of tight and easy turns using the slider. Tight turns will be sharper and will follow the Route more closely. Easy turns will be smoother than tight turns but, depending on the turn involved, the boat maybe further away from the Waypoint in the Route. Differential use of propellers is also used by the guidance system to make more efficient turns. This option can be selected in the Simulation tab under BoatCruiser/NavCruiser PRO Options). Please read the help section on BoatCruiser/NavCruiser PRO Options for other Simulation setting information.
Note that the scientific model used in the program to simulate the boat trajectory is based on real world physics. It is important to note that the guidance system algorithm depends on the physics of the modelled boat to function. Therefore, there are special cases where the modelled boat can get lost, or not simulate the way expected. A good rule of thumb is to attempt simulations on Routes that can be attempt ed in the real world. Below is an example of an unrealistic scenario.
The boat that is being used is a large vessel (110 feet long) with the distance between Waypoint two and three being 48 feet. The boat is traveling at 9.72 knots. The control algorithm may skip over this piece of the Leg resulting in the simulation stopping prematurely, or having unexpected results. In the case shown below it stops prematurely:
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To simulate how a boat will follow a Route, a Route must first be created. The default Leg speed or the cruising speed can be changed if desired. The help section on Routes provides more information on various Route settings such as Leg speed etc. The simulation can be performed on a Route by opening the Context Menu (right-click on any Waypoint) and selecting the Start Simulation from this Waypoint option as shown below:
The type of vessel simulated can be selected from the Simulation tab under BoatCruiser/NavCruiser PRO Options.
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Routes are composed of Route Legs (the straight-line segments between Waypoints) and it is possible to select a cruising speed for each Leg. The Leg speed can be set or modified in the Route Properties view as shown below. Double-clicking on the Route brings up the Route Properties page.
By default, the cruising speed of the specific boat type is set. The units used in the program interface such as metric, imperial or nautical units can be changed in BoatCruiser/NavCruiser PRO Options.
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Once the simulation is underway, the boat picks up speed and adjusts its heading to stay on track. The boat motion creates a thin purple trace to show where it has been. The shape and color of the simulated boat can be set by using the Boat tab under BoatCruiser/NavCruiser PRO Options.
Please read the section on Reviewing a Simulated Trajectory and Working with Trajectories for detailed information.
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