INTEGRATED MACHINERY CONTROL—THE WAY OF THE FUTURE

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe shipboard integrated machinery control system (SHIN‐MACS) has been under development since 1977. It has moved from an idea, through a paper study, a wooden mock‐up, a demonstrator console, to an advanced development model, and will first be operational in the Canadian patrol frigate (CPF) in 1988. The development of this integrated control system, particularly the latter part, has not been without its problems. However, through redesign and evaluation, the system is now real‐time capable and should provide a marked improvement over traditional control systems, particularly in the area of operator interaction with the plant.The integrated machinery control system (IMCS) for the Canadian Patrol Frigate Program is the same design as the IMCS that is being retrofitted into the DDH‐280 class of destroyers under the Tribal Class Update and Modernization Program (TRUMP). The IMCS is a microprocessor based distributed control system which provides automatic control and monitoring of the ship's machinery and systems. The system will have the most technologically advanced man‐machine interface yet to be seen in a warship. The IMCS communicates with all of its components over a triple redundant data bus using redundant digital propulsion controllers. It also has an equipment health monitoring capability designed to assist in the reduction of life cycle cost of the machinery.The IMCS in the CPF has a significant growth potential. The IMCS is a software based system, and thus lends itself readily to modifications and adaptation to other vessels. This technology will impact on the operation of a modern warship by catering to reduced manning; it will also provide assistance in the implementation of on‐condition based maintenance through the gathering of data electronically. The Canadian patrol frigate IMCS will be the first fully digital machinery control system to utilize data bus technology for all control and monitoring functions.