Engineering solutions

The Azimuth Thruster Control Console (ATCC) is a modular marine device designed for controlling various types of azimuth thrusters. It includes an instrument panel, control handle, keyboard unit, and, if required, an HMI touchscreen. The system is designed and mass-produced by specialists of NPO “Dontechcenter”.

Each component of the console can be customized according to specific project requirements. Full customization of both design and appearance is provided — including dial and indicator layouts, key positions and functions, handle form and mechanics. The scales and indicators can be adapted for different types of thrusters — pushing or pulling azimuth thrusters, as well as azipod-type propulsion units.

Graphics and display logic are configured according to the position of the control station on the bridge — either bow-facing or stern-facing. The console features a function of transferring synchronized control between stations with active station indication.

The design uses Russian-manufactured PLC NLScon-RSB, NLS-4AO module, and BP60B power supply. The controller performs control functions, alarm signaling, and event logging to an external SD card. The hardware set can be adapted to project requirements.

The console supports connection to all major marine interfaces:

• • analog signals (voltage, current);
• • digital inputs/outputs;
• • relay lines;
• • Modbus RTU, Modbus ASCII, Modbus TCP;
• • CAN, RS-485, RS-232.

This ensures compatibility with a wide range of domestic and foreign equipment — both new and already installed on vessels.

All elements with visual indication — scales, pointers, buttons, and panels — are equipped with LED backlighting. Lighting control is centralized through a PWM module located inside the keyboard unit. Brightness is adjusted via dedicated buttons on the keyboard.

The console set includes:

• • control handle;
• • instrument panel;
• • keyboard unit;
• • (optional) HMI panel.

Instrument Panel

The instrument panel is manufactured according to the customer’s technical specifications. The PCBs, software, and internal circuitry are fully developed and produced by specialists of NPO “Dontechcenter”. Enclosures are manufactured at Russian facilities. Instruments are resistant to vibration and moisture, adapted for marine operation, and feature simple calibration using a button and potentiometers on the rear panel. The pointer, needle, and dial are LED backlit.

Keyboard Module

The keyboard is made of stainless steel and aircraft-grade aluminum D16T (international designation 2024-T3). It provides control and alarm signaling functions. The circuitry, PCB, and software were designed and implemented by a Russian contractor. Both visual and audible signaling are provided. Key functionality can be adapted to project requirements.

Backlit keys provide comfortable operation at night.

A separate row of backup control buttons is provided, with contacts connected directly, bypassing the main control logic. This ensures basic thruster control functions in case of interface failures or controller malfunction.

Control Handle

The handle is a high-precision mechanical unit, fully designed, manufactured, and assembled at the NPO “Dontechcenter” production facilities. Materials used include:

• • alloy stainless and tool steels;
• • aircraft-grade aluminum D16T (2024-T3);
• • brass;
• • acrylic glass (in backlight components).

Special vibration-damping elements are used to eliminate parasitic oscillations. Angle sensors, fully designed and manufactured by NPO “Dontechcenter”, are installed. Both dials feature LED backlighting. The design can be adapted to create a full-turn ship wheel, retaining the advantages of the handle: tactile fixation, friction damping, illuminated scales, and customization to project requirements.

All console elements are engineered for marine operation. Ferrous metal parts are galvanically coated against corrosion, while aluminum alloys undergo anodizing. Inside the handle, a programmable hardened disk provides tactile fixation. Standard configuration includes six detents:

• • 0 — Stop (engine idling, clutch disengaged);
• • 1 — Slow ahead;
• • 2 — Slow–medium ahead;
• • 3 — Half ahead;
• • 4 — Full ahead;
• • 5 — Emergency ahead (boost, time-limited).

The number of detents and divisions can be customized. Both axes — thrust (power) and azimuth — feature adjustable friction mechanisms for stable positioning and precise control. Friction resistance can be adjusted by modifying spring preload with set screws. The azimuth dial includes a detent at ship course position, with optional additional detents at ±90°, ±180°, or other required angles.

Handle Angle Sensor

The housing, PCB, and software of the sensor were developed and manufactured by NPO “Dontechcenter”. The housing is made of anodized aluminum alloy 2024-T3. The shaft is made of tool steel with damping to prevent jitter. The measuring element is based on a contactless magnetic sensor with 11-bit resolution. Data exchange is performed via CAN bus with configuration capability.

HMI Panel

Optionally, the console may include a Weintek HMI panel or other models upon customer request. The panel is used for thruster control and displaying alarm signals.

Conclusion

The Azimuth Thruster Control Console, designed and mass-produced by NPO “Dontechcenter”, is a fully localized solution for vessels of various classes. Modular design, support for all thruster types and interfaces, reliability, and adaptability are proven in real operation. NPO “Dontechcenter” offers customized engineering solutions and is open to cooperation with shipbuilding and shipping companies.