Typical Operations Center

SOFRELOG VTS systems are founded on operational principles established by international organizations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), and other organizations that contribute to and set international standards. Sofrelog staff members actively contribute to these organizations and serve in leadership positions. Here are some important VTS features:
Intuitive Operator Controls and Displays

Multiple Window Display

• Multiple Window Displays: Operator workstations include one or more displays with individual windows for key functions (as shown at right). Windows include a main working area with an electronic chart, areas for frequently used functions, alarms management, and database interface. Dedicated chart windows can be set to view specific areas. Each chart window can be panned to view any location, and can be individually zoomed and configured.

• Intuitive Mouse Commands: The workstation mouse moves freely across all displays and accesses the majority of functions as well as help screens with simple point-and-click commands.

• Custom Configuration: Display configurations, window layouts, command panels and menus are configured individually for each system. Security is maintained through a system of passwords that allows or restricts functions.

Enhanced Tracking Views

• Automatic Sensor Management: The system continually re-evaluates and selects the best sensor input (radar, transponders) for tracking each vessel as it moves through the area. Coverage shadows or weather conditions that may temporarily interfere with one sensor are automatically filled-in by other sensors with coverage of the area. If available, VHF direction finder bearing lines can also be shown.

• Superimposed Radar Video Overlay: In areas where more than one radar provides coverage, the raw radar video of each radar can be clearly seen. Video tracks are colored to show movement and history in addition to standard tracking vectors and traces (as shown at right). Hundred or even thousands of tracks can be accommodated within the system depending on area requirements.

• Information Archiving: All tracking information as well as raw radar video, transponder tracks and the operators control actions are archived within the system. Vessel communications can also be archived and synchronized with the video information for incident review.

Sophisticated Communications Capability

• Multiple Control Centers: System information can be shared between workstations at various locations within the system, and if appropriate, shared with various authorities operating in the same area such as coast guard, pilots, search and rescue. These organizations can share sensor information to reduce costs while maintaining independent operations, functions and security.

• Information Exchange with Port Information Systems: Interfaces can be established with database systems and other networks. Data can be attached to a vessel track as it transits the area. Position information can be sent in real time to the database. Automated billing systems can be updated as vessels enter and leave the port. Hazardous cargo records can be immediately available. Port resources can be efficiently allocated based on projected arrival times.

• Internet or Intranet Access Capability: Vessel tracking information and other data can be automatically distributed to port constituents via Web Pages, without direct contact to VTS operations. Password access maintains security.

Other Operational Tools

A number of sophisticated tools are easily accessed through workstation controls or can be made standard within the system. The most popular include:

CPA/TCPA calculations ETA's Fixed Zone Protection Vessel Perimeter Protection Zone Exclusion Anchorage Protection Buoys Monitoring

Speed Limits (max./min.) Ship classification with unique icons Vessel labeling Variable speed vectors History tracing Coasting Zones And many others...

A list of features does not do justice to Sofrelog VTS. If you are planning a project or an upgrade, contact us for a demonstration in your office.