FIT 413

NAUTICAL KNOWLEDGE

( NAVIGATIONAL EQUIPMENTS)

ECHOSOUNDER

HOW IT WORKS AND USES

An echosounder, otherwise known as echosounder as a depth sounder is used as a tool for measuring
the depth of water through the transmission of sound waves into the water and measurement of the
time it takes for the sound waves to travel to the sea and return to the surface.

HOW ECHOSOUNDERS WORK

1.The echosounder possesses what is known as a transducer which is mounted on the hull of a ship or
boat to emit a pulse of sound waves into the water.

2. The sound waves then travel through the water to the seabed. When the sound waves get to the
seabed, they are drawn back to the surface.

3. The transducer detects the return of echo [sound waves] to the surface.

4. The depth of the water is then calculated with the time taken for the echo to reach the seabed and
return.

USES OF ECHOSOUNDERS

Echosounders are used for:

i. determining water depth, help ships and boats navigate safely.

ii. hydrographic surveys in mapping the underwater structures of oceans, rivers and lakes.
iii. fisheries to find the locations of schools of fish and measure their population.
iv. the study of oceanography, marine biology and geology by the scientists.
v. storing data, and integrating with other navigation and mapping systems.
 RADAR, HOW RADAR WORKS AND USES
Radar is a device that uses radio waves to locate and track objects. Radar is employed in
various fields such as aviation, meteorology, defense, navigation and traffic measures.

HOW RADAR WORKS

The radar begins with a transmitter that generates electromagnetic waves.

The transmitter sends these waves through an antenna, which then directs the waves in a specific
direction.

The electromagnetic waves travel through the air until they encounter an object in their path.

When the waves strike an object, they are partially reflected back towards the radar system.

A radar system has a receiver that detects the reflected waves.

The system analyzes the time it takes for the waves to travel to the object and back (the round-trip time),
as well as the Doppler shift in frequency if the object is moving.

A radar is used for:

detecting the presence and location of objects based on the reflection of radio waves.

helping identify them by sending out interrogation signals that trigger transponders on aircraft or other
objects.

meteorology to detect precipitation, measure its intensity, and track the movement of storms.

Imaging the subsurface of the ground, commonly in archeology, geophysics, and civil engineering.

sensing from satellites to create high-resolution images of the Earth's surface.

RADAR, HOW RADAR WORKS AND USES

Radar is a device that uses radio waves to locate and track objects. Radar is employed in
various fields such as aviation, meteorology, defense, navigation and traffic measures.

HOW RADAR WORKS

The radar begins with a transmitter that generates electromagnetic waves.

The transmitter sends these waves through an antenna, which then directs the waves in a specific
direction.

The electromagnetic waves travel through the air until they encounter an object in their path.

When the waves strike an object, they are partially reflected back towards the radar system.

A radar system has a receiver that detects the reflected waves.

The system analyzes the time it takes for the waves to travel to the object and back (the round-trip time),
as well as the Doppler shift in frequency if the object is moving.

HOW SONAR WORKS

A sonar system consists of a transducer, which is a device that can generate and receive sound waves

In the transmit mode, the transducer sends out a pulse of sound waves into the water. These sound
waves travel through the water.

When the sound waves encounter an object or the seafloor, they reflect back toward the transducer.

The transducer switches to receive mode and picks up the returning echoes.

The system analyzes the time it takes for the sound waves to travel to the object and back. This
information is used to calculate the distance to the object.

The data can be visualized as a sonar image, displaying underwater structures, the seafloor, or objects in
the water column.

It's commonly used in various applications such as:

1.marine navigation

2. underwater mapping
3.fisheries,

4.defense, and

5. scientific research.

AZIMUTH MIRROR, HOW IT WORKS AND USES.

Azimuth mirror is used in navigation, astronomy, and cartography to denote the direction of a celestial
object or the horizontal angle between a reference point, often North, and an object. It is measured
clockwise from the north in degrees, typically ranging from 0 to 360.

USES OF AZIMUTH MIRRORS

1.The azimuth is measured from a reference direction, usually true north or magnetic north. In this
system, 0 degrees azimuth points directly north, 90 degrees points east, 180 degrees points south, and
270 degrees points west.

2. Azimuth is widely used in navigation, especially in compass navigation. It helps in determining the
direction of travel or the bearing of a destination.

3.In astronomy, azimuth is used to specify the direction of celestial objects in the
sky. For example, the azimuth of the Sun is the compass direction from which the
Sun is observed at a specific time.
4.Azimuth is essential in cartography and surveying. Surveyors use azimuth angles
to measure and record directions of lines and boundaries.
5.Azimuth is critical in military and aviation for navigation and target designation.
NAVIGATIONAL CHARTS

Navigational charts are essential tools used by mariners to navigate safely through waterways. These
charts provide detailed information about the characteristics of the sea or lake floor, coastlines and
navigational aids.

The following are the types of navigational charts

1. Electronic Charts (ENCs): Digital charts that can be displayed on electronic chart
display and information systems (ECDIS).
2. Paper Charts: Traditional printed charts used as a backup or in areas where electronic
systems may not be reliable

Information Included:

1) Depth Soundings: Depths of the water at various points, allowing mariners to navigate
safely and avoid shallow areas.
2) Aids to Navigation: Locations of buoys, beacons, lighthouses, and other markers that
help guide vessels safely.
3) Landmarks and Topography: Coastal features, landmarks, and topographic details to
aid in visual navigation.
4) Tidal Information: Information about tides and tidal currents to help mariners plan their
routes.

Chart Symbols and Abbreviations:

Navigational charts use a variety of symbols and abbreviations to convey information efficiently. For
example, different symbols represent the type of seabed (sand, mud, rocks) or the presence of wrecks.

Chart Scale:
Navigational charts come in various scales. Larger scale charts provide more detailed information but
cover smaller areas, while smaller scale charts cover larger areas with less detail.

Chart Corrections:

Charts must be regularly updated to reflect changes in the navigational environment, such as new buoys,
changes in channels, or natural shifts in the seabed. Mariners need to apply chart corrections to ensure
the accuracy of the information.

Chart Datum:

The reference level for depths on a chart. It's crucial for understanding the water depth in relation to the
seabed

Use of GPS and Electronic Navigation:

While traditional navigation methods involve using charts with manual tools like compasses, modern
navigation often incorporates GPS and electronic chart systems for more accurate and efficient
navigation.

International Standards:

The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) sets standards for the production and use of
navigational charts globally to ensure consistency and safety.

Specialized Charts:

Charts may be specialized for specific purposes such as passage planning, harbor navigation, or ocean
crossing

INTERNATIONAL CODES

The International Code of Signals is a set of signals and codes used for maritime communication. It
includes a system of flags, signals, and symbols that ships use to communicate with each other,
particularly in situations where language barriers may exist.

FLAGS DISPLAY BOARD

A flags display board is a board or panel designed to showcase and organize a collection of flags.

Flags display boards serve both practical and aesthetic purposes, providing a visually engaging way to
showcase and educate people about flags from different regions, cultures, or historical periods.

BINOCULARS

Binoculars are optical instruments designed for magnified observation of distant objects. They consist of
two identical telescopes mounted side by side and aligned to point in the same direction.
Features of binoculars include:

1.Binoculars are often specified by two numbers, such as 8x42. The first number (8x) represents the
magnification, indicating that the object will appear eight times closer than it would to the naked eye.
The second number (42) is the diameter of the objective lenses in millimeters, determining the amount
of light the binoculars can gather.

2. Binoculars use prisms to invert and revert the image, allowing for a more compact design. There are
two main types of prisms: Porro prisms and roof prisms. Porro prisms are bulkier but often provide a
better three-dimensional image. Roof prisms result in a more streamlined design but may be more
complex to manufacture.

3. Lens coatings are applied to improve image brightness, contrast, and color rendition. Common
coatings include anti-reflective coatings and phase coatings for roof prism binoculars.

4. Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye when you can still see the entire field of
view. This is especially important for those who wear eyeglasses.

5. High-quality binoculars often have features like waterproofing and fogproofing. These features protect
the optics from moisture and allow for use in various weather conditions.
 SEXTANTS

A sextant is a navigational instrument used to measure the angle between two objects, typically the
horizon and a celestial body such as the sun or a star.

It's important to note that for serious and accurate celestial navigation, especially in professional
maritime applications, metal sextants are still the preferred choice due to their precision and durability.
Plastic sextants, however, provide a practical and affordable option for educational purposes and basic
navigational training.

BODY BOUYS/JACKETS

Body buoys or jackets are commonly referred to as life jackets or life vests. They are designed to keep a
person afloat in the water. PFDs come in various types, and their design may vary based on the intended
use and specific water activities.
BOUYAGE SYSTEM

The buoyage system is a set of rules and conventions used to mark navigational channels and hazards in
bodies of water, such as oceans, seas, and rivers. It provides a standardized way for mariners to interpret
the meaning of buoys and other navigation aids. The two main buoyage systems used internationally are
the IALA Maritime Buoyage System and the U.S. Aids to Navigation System.

FOG SIGNALLING BELL

Fog signaling bells are maritime navigation aids used to alert nearby vessels of a ship's presence in
conditions of reduced visibility, such as fog. These bells are part of the sound signals required under the
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). The sound signals are essential for
preventing collisions and ensuring safe navigation in situations where visibility is limited.

Fog signaling bells play a vital role in:

1. maritime safety
2. providing a means for vessels to communicate their presence and avoid collisions during reduced
visibility conditions.
3. when a vessel is navigating in fog or other conditions that limit visibility. In such situations, sound
signals become crucial for alerting other vessels to the presence and location of a ship.

TIDE GUAGES

Tide gauges, also known as tidal gauges or tide sensors, are instruments used to measure and record the
changes in sea level over time. They are essential tools for monitoring tides, sea-level variations, and
other oceanographic parameters. Tide gauges serve various purposes, including navigation, coastal
engineering, climate research, and the study of long-term sea-level trends.

TYPES OF TIDE GUAGES

Float Tide Gauges: Traditional tide gauges use a float system that moves with the tide. Changes in water
level cause the float to move, and this motion is recorded to measure tidal variations.

Pressure Tide Gauges: These gauges measure the pressure exerted by the water column. As sea level
changes, the pressure on the gauge changes, providing data on tide fluctuations.

RECORDING METHODS

1. Analog Gauges: Some tide gauges use a pen and chart system to produce analog records of tide
levels over time.
2. Digital Gauges: Modern tide gauges are often digital and can provide real-time data, storing
measurements electronically for analysis and dissemination.

Tide gauges contribute significantly to our understanding of coastal and ocean dynamics, helping to
manage risks associated with tidal fluctuations and contributing valuable data to climate studies.

NAUTICAL ALMANAC

The Nautical Almanac is a publication containing astronomical data and information that is essential for
celestial navigation at sea. It provides mariners with the positions of celestial bodies, such as the Sun,
Moon, planets, and stars, at specific times throughout the year.

Features of nautical almanac are:

1. The primary content of the Nautical Almanac includes tables of celestial data, such as the daily
positions of celestial bodies, their altitudes, azimuths, and other relevant information. This data
is crucial for celestial navigation, allowing mariners to determine their position at sea using
celestial observations.
2. The Nautical Almanac provides information about the positions of celestial bodies visible from
Earth, including the Sun, Moon, planets (e.g., Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn), and stars. For each
celestial body, the almanac includes data for various times and dates throughout the year.
3. The almanac includes corrections for time, which are essential for converting observations made
at local apparent time to Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) or Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
4. The Nautical Almanac is often accompanied by Sight Reduction Tables or software, which helps
mariners reduce celestial sights and determine their position accurately using celestial
navigation techniques.
5. The Nautical Almanac is widely used by mariners, navigators, and astronomers globally. It is an
indispensable tool for traditional celestial navigation, especially when other electronic navigation
methods may not be available.

BAROMETER (ANEROID)
An aneroid barometer is a type of barometer that measures atmospheric pressure using a flexible metal
box (aneroid cell) instead of a liquid column. It is a more compact and portable alternative to the
traditional mercury barometer.

Aneroid barometers find applications in meteorology, aviation, marine navigation, and general weather
forecasting. Pilots often use them for altitude measurements, and they are common instruments on
ships.

SEAMANSHIP LABORATORY

A seamanship laboratory, often found in maritime training institutions or nautical schools, is a practical
training facility where aspiring seafarers can acquire hands-on experience in various aspects of
seamanship. These laboratories are equipped with simulators, training aids, and equipment to provide
students with a realistic and controlled environment for learning essential maritime skills.

Seamanship laboratories are crucial for complementing theoretical classroom learning with practical
experience. They play a vital role in preparing future seafarers for the challenges they may face at sea
and ensuring they acquire the necessary skills to operate vessels safely and efficiently.

FISHING VESSELS

Fishing vessels are specialized boats or ships designed for catching fish and other seafood. These vessels
vary widely in size, design, and equipment, depending on the type of fishing they are intended for, the
species targeted, and the fishing methods employed.

TYPES OF FISHING VESSELS ARE:

I. Trawlers: They use a fishing net, called a trawl, that is dragged along the sea bottom or in the
midwater to catch fish. These vessels can be large and are equipped with winches to haul in
heavy nets.
 II. Purse seiners use a large wall of netting to encircle a school of fish near the surface. The bottom
of the net is then closed like a drawstring (pursed) to capture the fish.
III. Longliners use a long line with baited hooks to catch fish. The line can extend for several miles,
and it is laid in the water and later retrieved.
IV. Gillnetters use vertical panels of netting suspended in the water to catch fish. The fish get
entangled in the netting by their gills.
V. Pot or trap vessels use containers or cages (pots or traps) to catch fish or crustaceans. These
containers are baited, and once the fish or crustaceans enter, they are trapped.
VI. Drifters use nets that are allowed to drift with the currents. They catch fish swimming into the
nets.
VII. Purse seiners equipped with refrigerated holds to preserve the catch.

ROLES OF CREW /MEMBERS ONBOARD IN A FISHING VESSEL

 Captain

The captain is a ship’s highest officer, Department heads report to the captain who is ultimately
responsible for the safety and security of the ship, and crews welfare in keeping with all maritime legal
requirements.

 Navigational officers

Deck officers, also known as mates, make important decisions on the navigation, Communications, Crew,
Cargo and overall running of the ship. They are also responsible for the safety of the crew, cargo,
passengers and vessel both at sea and at port.

 Chief mate

The chief mate is the head of the deck department and second-in-command. The chief mate primary
assignment and responsibilities are the vessel’s cargo operations, Supervising the deck crew and
directing bridge operations. Additional duties include maintenance of the ship’s hull, Cargo gear,
accommodations, lifesaving appliances and firefighting appliances. The chief mate also trains the crew
and cadets on board.

 Second mate

The second mate is qualified to stand watch, direct the bridge team and navigating the ship. The Second
mate’s primary duty is navigational, which includes updating charts and publications, keeping them
current, making passage plans, and all aspects of ship navigation. The Second mates other duties may
include directing line handlers, cargo watches, directing anchor detail, training and instructing crew
members

 Deckhand
Deckhand complete tasks such as working mooring lines, operating deck gear, standing anchor details
and working cargo.

 Engineering officers

The engineers are also called technical officers. They are responsible for keeping the ship and the
machinery running. Today, ships are complex units that combine a lot of technology within a small space.
This includes not only the engine and the propulsion system, but also, for example, the electrical power
supply, loading and discharging devices and freshwater generators. They also oversee operations and
maintenance of machinery and equipment throughout the ship

Other crew members onboard during navigation includes;

Chief engineer

Second engineer

Electro technical officer

Ship’s cook etc.