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What is Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA)?
Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) is a sophisticated marine radar system designed to enhance navigational safety by automatically plotting the positions of targets and predicting their future movements.
By providing real-time data on the speed, course, and position of other vessels, ARPA significantly reduces the workload on navigators and improves situational awareness, especially in congested or restricted waters.
The development of ARPA was driven by the need to improve maritime safety and efficiency. Traditional radar systems required manual plotting of targets, which was time-consuming and prone to human error.
The advent of digital technology in the late 20th century allowed for the automation of this process, leading to the development of ARPA systems. These systems were designed to automatically track targets, analyze their movements, and provide valuable collision avoidance information.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set out certain standards amending the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea requirements regarding the carrying of suitable automated radar plotting aids.
The primary function of ARPAs can be summarized in the statement found under the IMO Performance Standards. It states a requirement of ARPAs: “to improve the standard of collision avoidance at sea: Reduce the workload of observers by enabling them to automatically obtain information so that they can perform as well with multiple targets as they can by manually plotting a single target”. As we can see from this statement the principal advantages of ARPA are a reduction in the workload of bridge personnel and fuller and quicker information on selected targets.
A typical ARPA function gives a presentation of the current situation and uses computer technology to predict future situations. An ARPA assesses the risk of collision, and enables operator to see proposed maneuvers by own ship.
ARPA tracks the following parameters and has the following functionalities:
1.Motion Radar Presentation
True and Relative Motion Display: Capable of presenting both true and relative motion radar information for enhanced situational awareness.
2.Target Acquisition
Automatic and Manual Acquisition: Supports both automatic and manual target acquisition to ensure comprehensive tracking of all relevant targets.
3.Digital Read-Out
Detailed Target Information: Provides digital read-outs for acquired targets, including:
- Course
- Speed
- Range
- Bearing
- Closest Point of Approach (CPA)
- Time to Closest Point of Approach (TCPA)
- Bow Crossing Range and Time
4.Collision Assessment
Enhanced Display: Directly displays collision assessment information on the Plan Position Indicator (PPI), utilizing:
- Vectors (true or relative)
- Graphical Predicted Area of Danger (PAD) display
5.Trial Maneuvers
Simulation Capabilities: Enables the performance of trial maneuvers, including:
- Course changes
- Speed changes
- Combined course and speed changes
6.Navigation Stabilization
Automatic Ground Stabilization: Offers automatic ground stabilization for precise navigation purposes.
7.Rapid Processing
Enhanced Processing Speed: Processes radar information much more rapidly than conventional radar systems, though it remains subject to the same limitations.
8.Data Accuracy
Dependence on Input Accuracy: ARPA data accuracy is contingent on the precision of input data from sources such as the gyro and speed log.
Difference between RADAR and ARPA
| Feature | Radar | ARPA (Automatic Radar Plotting Aid) |
|---|---|---|
| Alerts and Alarms | Limited | Provides visual and audible collision risk alerts |
| Automation | Manual plotting required | Automatic plotting and tracking |
| Collision Avoidance | Basic visual information | Provides detailed collision avoidance information |
| Data Display | Real-time display of echoes on the screen | Enhanced display with target vectors, CPA, TCPA, and trails |
| Ease of Use | Requires constant monitoring and manual plotting | User-friendly interface with automated functions |
| Predictive Capabilities | None | Predicts future positions and movements of targets |
| Primary Function | Detects and displays the position of objects | Detects, tracks, and predicts the movement of objects |
| Target Identification | Limited, relies on visual identification | Can integrate with AIS for detailed target information |
| Target Tracking | Limited to manual observation | Automatically tracks multiple targets simultaneously |
| Vector Display | Not available | Shows true and relative vectors of targets |
In conclusion, the Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) is a a transformative tool in maritime navigation, fundamentally enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
By automating the tracking of other vessels and predicting their movements, ARPA tries to resolve the problems faced by bridge crews, providing them with crucial information at a glance—an invaluable asset in busy and complex waters.
The advancements in digital technology have allowed ARPA to replace the manual plotting of radar targets, significantly reducing the risk of human error and streamlining navigational processes.
With features that display real-time data on speed, course, and distance to potential collisions, ARPA not only assists in immediate decision-making but also enables crews to run simulations for various navigational scenarios.
The framework established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) underscores the vital role ARPA plays in enhancing maritime safety. By equipping bridge teams with the tools for smarter and quicker decision-making, it empowers them to monitor multiple vessels with reduced effort.
About Author
Karthik, a former navigating officer now turned into a maritime tech innovator focused on advancing the shipping industry through digital transformation. As the co-founder of MarineGPT and a product leader at Marine Insight, he develops AI-driven solutions and tech tools to make knowledge accessible to maritime professionals worldwide.
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
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