Executive Summary
This thesis proposes an electronic maneuvering board and dead reckoning tracer as a decision aid for U.S. Navy Officers of the Deck. It aims to replace the time-intensive, paper-based system with an automated, reliable software solution to improve contact management and reduce collisions at sea. The system is designed using UML and implemented with Ada, emphasizing portability and modularity.
Why It Matters
Defense analysts should care about this document as it addresses critical naval safety and operational efficiency issues by proposing a technological upgrade to a fundamental navigation process. Improving decision-making tools for naval officers directly impacts fleet readiness and reduces costly incidents.
Key Takeaways
- The current paper-based maneuvering board system is inefficient, prone to human error, and overwhelmed by multiple contacts, contributing to increased collisions at sea.
- A proposed electronic maneuvering board system, developed using UML and Ada, aims to provide timely and accurate contact information, enhancing situational awareness for naval officers.
- The new system is designed for portability and modularity, reducing manning requirements and improving data exchange for critical contact management decisions.
Strategic Relevance
This research directly impacts naval operational safety and efficiency by modernizing a critical decision-making process for ship navigation. By reducing human error and improving information flow, it enhances the ability of naval vessels to operate safely in increasingly complex maritime environments, thereby preserving assets and personnel.