DynaSim from Dynaflow is a ship-manoeuvring simulator that incorporates state-of-the-art models of ship manoeuvring. It runs on Windows-based PC (NT, 2000, XP) and has a user-friendly interactive graphic interface. The ship simulator employs modular mathematical models for the various components of the ship (hull, propellers, rudders, thrusters), environmental effects (wind, current, waves), and waterways (bottom, pier walls) to achieve a sophisticated and faithful mathematical model for the ship. It can also simulate different types of ships such as twin-screw ships and tug boats. These models are based on collective experience resulting from development of many simulators.
DynaSim has three simulation modes. In the fully user controlled mode, the user controls the rudder, the engines, and lateral thrusters through a graphic control panel to simulate navigation of a ship. In the standard ship certification manoeuvre mode, DynaSim can simulate a ship performing one of the classical manoeuvres recommended by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for evaluating manoeuvrability and hydrodynamic characteristics. Under the computer controlled manoeuvres mode, the simulator can model multi-ship traffic and interactions. Ship traffic rules in the simulation are based on the US Code of Conduct of Vessels. Traffic parameters can also be adjusted.
DynaSim can be used to generate multiple ship tracks to evaluate harbour safety from a system perspective and estimate the likelihood of collision for various types of vessels, traffic densities, navigation channel geometries and environmental conditions. It can also be used for continual training of masters and pilots in making decisions during ship operations to minimise human error, and by naval architects, harbour designers and port managers for structures and waterway design, modification, improvement and implementation of safety measures.
