The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator

Abstract

This paper describes the tanker cargo handling simulator recently installed at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The tanker simulator is modeled on a nominal 80 000-dwt tank vessel with segregated ballast, crude oil wash, and inert gas systems. The loading console is typical in design, construction, and detail to that which is normally found in a shipboard cargo control room. Through the real-time operation of this console, the student receives training in tanker loading, discharging, and ballasting operations. In addition, a unique method of instructor interface and control allows the incorporation of spontaneous malfunctions in an exercise. The simulator is based on a computer model using hydraulic network theory to describe the piping systems and overall performance. This paper describes the development of the simulator and many of the features incorporated in it. Attention is given to the instructor's interface, which is made user friendly through the use of simulation control menus. These menus allow the instructor to completely command and monitor the simulation exercise.