The manoeuvring simulator

A few years ago, the Le Havre-Antifer-Fécamp pilot station acquired an electronic manoeuvring simulator, initially developed by TRANSAS.

In 2020, this simulator was completely renovated to offer an enhanced immersive experience, thanks to optimised visualisation and redesigned ergonomics.

Following major modernisation work, our new simulator, designed by the manufacturer Wärtsilä, now features a 350-degree panoramic screen, compared with 270 previously, offering unprecedented immersion. This technology is based on 14 projectors, doubling the capacity of the old model, for a faithful reproduction of the outside spaces and surrounding floors of the navigation bridge.

The simulator can also be used to test specific manoeuvres, such as coordinating several tugs simultaneously. These complex scenarios offer pilots a unique opportunity to hone their expertise and improve collective safety in the field.

With this cutting-edge technology, the Le Havre-Antifer-Fécamp Pilotage Station is confirming its commitment to being at the forefront of training and maintaining the skills of its pilots and pilots’ masters.

Using a 350° panoramic screen, digital images are used to reconstruct the characteristics of the various sites covered by the Le Havre pilotage area, the harbour and docks of Le Havre, and the ports of Antifer and Fécamp. In addition to studying the reactions of ships in real-life situations, the aim is to maintain knowledge of such things as local topography, local regulations, internal instructions and the use of instruments. It also helps to perfect manoeuvres in special conditions, such as fog or emergencies, and to understand the causes of poor manoeuvring. The system takes into account the strength of currents and winds, the vessel’s draught and air draught, combined with the effects of propellers, banks and ground. The bridge is fixed, but the exact conditions are reproduced on the screen, and seasickness cannot be ruled out in a heavy swell in front of the entrance to the port of Fécamp!

Following the agreement signed in December 2007 between the Station and the GPMH Port du Havre, the Le Havre-Fécamp pilot simulator is used to validate the configuration of future port developments, including new river locks, extensions and new terminals. The simulator was used for the creation of Port 2000 and, more recently, to validate the plans for new quays at Le Havre, Poste 1 and Poste 2, scheduled for 2025.

The simulator is also used to train our pilots to carry out very specific, non-standard operations, such as those planned for 2022: the transport by barge of the giant gravity foundations for the Fécamp wind farm.

This simulator faithfully recreates the bridge of a ship, enabling highly immersive exercises to be carried out in safe conditions. Pilots from the port of Le Havre can train to manage rare and critical situations, such as :

• Technical breakdowns or mechanical incidents,
• Accidents or managing men overboard,
• Manoeuvres in extreme weather conditions.

Develop and validate port projects by working in collaboration with the parties involved in port development.
In collaboration with the Station’s pilot-instructors, these exercises can be repeated to perfect reactions to the unexpected. This approach not only enhances pilots’ skills, but also gives them valuable experience in ensuring maritime safety.

Within the framework of bridge resource management, teamwork (a pilot giving orders, the other at the helm,) allows an analysis of a simulated exchange between the captain and the pilot.