3D printing for marine navigation

UK based Marine Data Systems has used 3D printing to speed up the supply of heading repeaters and alarm units to the Canadian Navy

The firm, a specialist in the development and manufacture of marine navigation equipment and associated control systems, has equipped 12 Kingston Class Coastal Defence vessels with dual Sperry NAVIGAT X MK1™ gyrocompass systems and a full suite of repeater instruments.

John Poyner, managing director, Marine Data Systems, said: “There was a very short lead time between finally receiving the order and required delivery, but our technical and production teams did a great job and we managed to meet a very tight deadline and budget."

Marine Data designed, prototyped, tested, manufactured and delivered the units to Nova Scotia in six weeks from the order date. It built the first prototype using its 3D printer enabling the firm to be sure all the electronics and wiring would fit correctly first time.

Under the contract, Marine Data developed a new MD75HR digital repeater with super large digits, modified its MD73HR Tape Heading Repeaters to accommodate the use of Night Vision Goggles and customised its MD86ALM alarm unit to meet Sperry Marine’s requirements.

Marine Data has previously used 3D printing technology on a special repeater for the French Navy Barracuda Submarines so that they could use the model to ensure cable entries and ducting would align perfectly.

The firm also supplies equipment for commercial vessels from ferries to fishing vessels, right through to tugs and tankers.