Integrated Bridge Systems are crucial to understand for anyone working in the shipping industry. Read our blog to learn more about these systems and why they may be important for you to know more intimately.
What are Integrated Bridge Systems?
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) defines an Integrated Bridge System, or IBS, as:
“a combination of systems which are interconnected in order to allow centralized access to sensor information or command/control from workstations, with the aim of increasing safe and efficient ship’s management by suitably qualified personnel.”
IMO
Essentially, IBS is a combination of interconnected systems made to allow one place to monitor all navigational tools for a ship. IBS is crucial to the control of a number of sensor operations including passage execution, communication, machinery control, and security. IBS helps ships to have safe and smooth operations and are especially important on large vessels and in crowded waters.
What Does IBS Control?
While each IBS is different, all Integrated Bridge Systems support the control of at least two of the following actions:
- Execution of passage
- Communications
- Machinery control
- Cargo operations
- Safety and security
Smaller ships’ IBS functions may support fewer systems than larger ships but each system is designed for the specific needs of a given ship. It is not a mandated requirement, meaning not all ships that operate commercially are legally obligated to have one.
Where is the IBS Located on a Ship?
The Integrated Bridge Systems are located in the bridge of the ship, where the captain mainly operates and steers the ship. The layout of a given IBS setup depends mainly on the layout of the bridge where it will be hosted, the type of equipment and functionalities included, and deciding which functionalities should be arranged next to one another.
What are the Main Parts of IBS?
There are four main components to IBS:
- Technical System
- Human Operator
- Main Machine Interfact
- Operational Guidelines
All functionalities of the IBS fit into one of these four components, including autopilot, conning display, GMDSS, steering gear, dual radar, gyro, dual ECDIS setup and position fixing systems. The IBS is set up in a way that it will alert the captain of any malfunction on any of the systems so it may be taken care of immediately. Most IBS will also be equipped with alarm systems in the cabins, in the case that the captain or officer is not in the bridge at the time of a malfunction, so that the issue can be addressed as soon as possible.
Still Have Questions?
If you still have questions about IBS, contact our experienced staff at LogiWorld and we’ll be happy to answer any other questions you may have about IBS or shipping commercially.