Action Plot

In submarines the action plot workstation fulfills a vital function, assembling a status report based on sonar and the periscope sensor data. For this the seaman rely on the nautical map of the area, a ten point divider, a triangle protractor and a compass. The submarine's own course is displayed automatically on the Nautoplot chart table. In the training of navy seamen, the operation of the ACP workstation could previously only be practiced during tours on board submarines. The task was to remedy this situation and to prepare navy seamen for their duties more efficiently.

A virtual ACP workstation with stored signals simulates a submarine maneuver in various sea areas and with increasing levels of difficulty.

The targets and the student's own vessel move constantly through the maneuver area. The learner receives continuous sonar and periscope signals from which he or she compiles the status report. In this, he or she can apply the methods previously learned and determine and report on the exact position based on the plotted coordinates.

With up to 8 contacts, the learner comes under intense pressure and forgets that he or she is not actually on board a submarine. In order for the scenarios to appear even more realistic, the sonar and periscope signals – as on a navigation device – are automatically generated and introduced acoustically. The scenarios can be continuously varied by the trainer by means of an editor to prevent habituation effects from setting in.

The acquisition of professionally-sound fundamental principles is paired with practical simulation exercises. For the first time, this enables the operation of an action plot workstation to be trained outside of a submarine and the navy seamen are optimally prepared for various situations in the situation display.

This new training tool can be enhanced with new exercises by the trainer and enables the learners to complete exciting and realistic drills.