Furuno NAVpilot-500 manual Principle of the Autopilot, Principle of Autopilot

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1.PRINCIPLE OF THE AUTOPILOT

Principle of Autopilot

Autopilot is an automatic device for steering a vessel maintaining its heading in an intended direction. Anyone can appreciate the advantages of the autopilot – being free to carry out navigational checks, trim adjustments or simply to relax and enjoy.

The autopilot utilizes a proportional rate system to steer the boat. The proportional rate system is similar to the highly accurate and reliable system used on aircraft, missiles and space vehicles. The proportional rate autopilot provides the necessary course correction to the steering gears in proportion to the speed and amount the boat moves off course.

With the removal of the dead band, the autopilot no longer wanders within a dead band but now steers a prescribed course, taking action within the presence of even a minute course error. The amount of action depends on the course error detected; that is, when the course error rate is small a very low helm correction rate is applied.

Because the wandering is eliminated, the proportional rate autopilot has the advantages of low power consumption and low wear and tear on the autopilot and the steering system. Off-course correction is smooth, not jerking back and forth at full speed.

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Contents Autopilot Safety Instructions Table of Contents Alarms IiiWord to the Owner of the NAVpilot-500 FeaturesForeword System Configuration System configuration of NAVpilot-500This page is intentionally left blank Principle of the Autopilot Principle of AutopilotPrinciple of Operation Control unit, front view Basic OperationOperating Controls Startup sequence Turning the power offTurning On/Off Adjusting Brilliance and Contrast DisplaysContrast, brilliance window DisplaysScreen setup menu Selecting the data shown on Normal and Data DisplaysSelecting data for Normal Display 2 screen Normal DisplayData available for display in Screen 2 Upper and Lower Displayed dataSelecting the display layout for Data Display Data DisplaysScreen 3 pattern options window Selecting data for Data DisplayGraphic displays Selecting the display on Graphic DisplayGraphic options window Normal Display 1 Selecting data for analog indicatorDisplay setup menu Analog indicator bar options window Rudder AngleThis page is intentionally left blank Steering Modes Stby ModeStby mode display Auto mode display Auto ModeUsing the Auto mode Advanced Auto mode Advanced Auto mode displayEnabling the Advanced Auto mode Advanced auto options windowTurn Turn mode For Auto modeTurn setting window NAV mode display NAV ModeStarting the NAV mode NAV mode, Course and XTE Selecting sailing method of NAV modeNav mode options window NAV mode menu Switching waypointWaypoint switching options window Fishing mode options window OFFOrbit mode Do not use the Orbit mode in rough seaNavigating to TLL point Fishing mode Fishing mode windowClover Leaf OrbitRemote Mode Dial type remote controller FAP-5551Turning power off dial type Rotating dialTurning power on, button and lever type remote controllers NFU No Follow-Up mode displayOperating remote controller ex. button and lever types Turning power off, button and lever type remote controllersSystem setup menu Selecting course after the Remote mode is offStby mode menu Course after remote controller is turned off Cse course after remote options windowDodge mode display Dodge ModeDodging in Stby mode Dodging in Auto or NAV mode Stby Mode Menu Offsetting dataMenu Operation Data calibration menuOffsetting the heading data Ship’s speed, temperature, depth calibrationSelecting the selecting method of magnetic variation Magnetic variation options windowSetting parameters Parameter setup menuSelecting the method of entering the parameter Sea state options windowMANUAL-CALM Deviation level options windowSetting parameters manually Example of Manual parameterTrack line and weather setting value Rudder angle and rudder gain settingWeather Rudder GainCounter Rudder General guidelines for setting rudder gainGeneral guidelines for setting counter rudder gain Adjusting the sensitivity in monitoring the boat’s trim Auto trim options windowWhen towing the net Auto net towing options windowSetting the units of measurements Speed unit options window, for exampleDDMM.MM’ Key beep options window Setting other menu itemsActivating key beep Setting the panel dimmer Locking the control unitLock options window Selecting languageSimulation mode options window Running simulation programAlarm menu AlarmsAlarm Menu Selecting the alarm buzzer Audio alarm options windowAlarm interval options window Selecting the beep patternSetting the watch alarm Setting the heading deviation alarmSetting the cross-track error limit Watch alarm options windowSetting the speed alarm How to use XTE alarm Into modeApplication of XTE alarm Speed alarm options windowSetting the depth alarm Depth alarm options windowSetting the temperature alarm Setting the trip distance alarmTemp alarm options window Log trip options windowLog trip clear options window Alarm InformationClearing the trip distance Alarm messages Alarm messages, their meanings and prioritiesMaintenance & Troubleshooting Preventive MaintenanceMaintenance program Check point RemedyReplacement of Fuse DiagnosticsParts Name Type Code No Remarks Test options windowHeading Sensor Test Processor Unit TestController Unit Test Keyboard Test Screen TestRudder Setup and Auto Test Rudder testClearing Memories System DataSystem data screen Memory clear options windowError message Meaning Remedy Error MessagesError messages Error messages con’t Menu Tree MN-1Stby mode menu MN-2Auto mode menu MN-3NAVpilot-500 Control UnitProcessor Unit InterfaceColor Power SupplyEnvironmental Conditions Index IN-1
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NAVpilot-500 specifications

The Furuno NAVpilot-500 is an advanced autopilot system designed for a range of vessels, from small boats to larger commercial ships. This cutting-edge technology provides reliable steering assistance, ensuring enhanced navigational safety and improved operational efficiency. With its versatile functionalities, the NAVpilot-500 has made a significant impact in the maritime industry.

One of the standout features of the Furuno NAVpilot-500 is its use of FURUNO's proprietary technology, including advanced sensors and algorithms. This system leverages a dual-processor architecture, allowing for seamless performance in diverse sea conditions. The NAVpilot-500 is capable of handling course control with impressive precision, adjusting automatically to wind and waves to maintain a steady course.

Another notable aspect of this autopilot system is the intuitive user interface. The large, sunlight-readable display provides easy access to all functionalities and settings, making it user-friendly for operators of varying expertise levels. The touchscreen interface allows for straightforward navigation through menus, ensuring that users can quickly adapt to changing conditions on the water.

The NAVpilot-500 features a comprehensive set of integration options, including compatibility with various types of navigation and communication equipment. This capability allows for effective integration with Furuno's proprietary chart plotters and radar systems, ultimately enhancing situational awareness and safety while navigating.

Moreover, the system offers customizable autopilot modes, including modes for auto and standby operation. This versatility allows users to choose the most suitable steering method for their specific needs, whether for leisurely cruising or during heavy-duty fishing operations. The NAVpilot-500 also incorporates advanced safety features, such as target tracking and collision avoidance, ensuring that operators remain vigilant and prepared for any potential hazards.

Furuno's NAVpilot-500 is engineered for durability and reliability, meeting the rigorous standards set by the maritime industry. Robust construction allows it to withstand harsh marine environments, providing peace of mind to operators. With its blend of advanced technology, user-friendly design, and reliable performance, the NAVpilot-500 stands out as one of the leading autopilot systems in the market today. Whether for leisure or professional use, this system brings a level of sophistication and safety that enhances navigation experiences across various maritime applications.