In most cases, I will tell them that if they want to navigate, they will need all of these items.
If you’re going to draw parallel lines, for instance, somewhat using rulers and a plotter, you might choose only one of those two methods, as this article suggests.
However, except for that option, each of the other tools plays an integral part in the process of navigation plotting in some way.
It should be noted that this pertains to all forms of navigation, including coastal navigation, celestial navigation, meteorological work, and radar work—no other extra communications technology.
Dividers
It is possible to calculate the distances that separate two places using dividers, which can also be used to assist in aligning parallel rulers or plotters.
There are several different styles. The ultra-light divisions are a form of speed bow, which is the only one we have and the one that comes highly recommended by our team. They are brought in from Denmark specifically.
A bow is a kind of tool that, once configured, will maintain the point spacing that it was given.
In contrast to traditional dividers, which are expanded by pulling them open or contracted by applying pressure, this one has a knob in the middle of the tool that can be rotated.
A “speed” bow can adjust its draw length only by the user via their hands rather than through the central knob.
Put another way; you can bypass the precise control provided by the middle knob by pulling or pressing forcefully on the legs themselves.
Based on its ease of usage and effectiveness level of precision, this type has emerged as The dividers preferred by the overwhelming majority of skilled navigators around the globe.
This was made possible because it was imported by Weems and Plath, a company specializing in navigational aids with a distribution network that spans the world and has a unique pricing point.
Before introducing this type around fifteen years ago, decent speed bows retailed for around thirty dollars.
As a result, they were challenging to use in addition to being inexpensive and simple to use.
This one comes with a pack of leads, which enables you to switch its function from dividers to a drawing compass, allowing you to draw arcs used in calculating distance off.
Parallel Rulers
Using this tool, you may create a line parallel to another line while maintaining a certain distance from it.
To use it, you must first align one edge of the ruler with the baseline, and then while holding down that side of the tool, you must move the other side to the point where the new line will be drawn.
If the new region cannot be reached in a single step, you must “walk” the rulers across the page to the new location while holding one ruler still and moving the other.
Successfully managing them without sliding requires experience, but it’s not too tricky once you’ve gone through the necessary steps.
There is a great diversity of styles and pattern sizes available for these. We advise using transparent material that is 1 foot in length.
A parallel plotter, also known as the Weems similar plotter, is a rolling tool that may be used as an alternative to parallel rulers.
This tool was invented by Weems, who also gave his name to a similar plotter.
These are intended to roll without sliding, which they can usually accomplish well with just a little experience.
Regrettably, rolling plotters do not function optimally close to the margins of charts or over folds in the chart.
We bring both instruments with us on the job, and although we prefer to work with the Weems plotter, we are prepared to switch to parallel rulers at any time.
The use of a ruler and a protractor
The process of navigation charting is quite similar to any other graphical or drafting activity.
We commonly use a ruler, and a protractor is essential anytime the calculation of angles is required, which frequently occurs in navigation when determining courses, bearings, and vector plotting.
It is possible to use a protractor tool to either draw a line in a specific direction or draw angles of a particular magnitude.
Regarding charting celestial lines of position, the square protractor we provide is very useful.
When we are weary, having a complete 360 degrees of visibility might help lessen the likelihood of making mistakes in our planning.
The parallel plotter and protractor functions may be performed by the 4″ x 15″ ruler we provide when it is used independently as a measuring instrument.
Regarding charting, some seafarers favor this one-tool option, while others are ready to carry an additional tool to speed up certain operations.
You will be able to put each device through its paces with the “Navigator’s Tool Pack,” allowing you to choose which one is most suited to your requirements.
We need long lines and other specific applications to warrant having a separate ruler at the nav station.
Parallel rulers and plotters are, of course, rulers in their own right. Parallel rulers and plotters are, however. The same may be said for the protractor.
How do you use a marine ruler?
There is a risk of becoming too reliant on modern electronic maritime navigation aids because of their ease of use, accuracy, and dependability; nonetheless, these systems are not flawless.
Therefore, the most critical computer on board is an experienced human navigator.
That individual must be well prepared to handle the situation in which all of the marine navigation equipment on board fail.
All modern tools used for maritime navigation rely on electricity and are subject to currents shortened by either saltwater or lightning strikes.
Even with the elaborate backup systems and rigid insulation, there is still a risk of water shorting out the electrical system; back up the navigation capability with manual marine navigation tools such as a chart, magnetic compass, pencil, and ruler because there is little that affects the functionality of these tools.
The sextant, formerly thought of as a necessary maritime navigation tool while sailing lengthy trips is now regarded as an optional piece of equipment.
This precise instrument’s development spanned decades, but it has since been rendered obsolete by the GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver, which is not only more accurate but also simpler to use.
When sailing beyond the harbor’s entrance, you must need the following maritime navigation gear.
The Fundamentals of Marine Navigation
When you have these instruments in your possession — or at the helm — you can do the three most fundamental duties of navigation:
- Determining where you are.
- Deciding where you want to go.
- Following a course to get there.
Where is Your Boat, Specifically?
- If you want to figure out where you are, look around and find three charted landmarks, such as navigational aids, bridges, or water towers on the beach. This will help you pinpoint your location.
- Once, you should direct your compass in their direction by pointing it (or your boat, if you don’t have a handheld compass).
- Take note of the heading.
- Then, place your parallel rules on the compass rose in such a way that it corresponds to the bearings, and then, one at a time, walk them until they meet with the landmark for the direction that they correspond to, and then draw a line down the edge of the ruler.
- After completing all three lines, you will arrive at a point where they join to form a little triangle; this is your position.
How to Find Your Way to the Destination of Your Choice?
Identifying your current position and your intended destination, followed by calculating the compass heading corresponding to the distance between the two points, is all required to complete this step.
Now, all that’s left to do is adjust the compass on your boat to face the correct course after you set sail.
Maintaining a Course of Action
Following the course is simple now that you know how to gain a bearing; all you need to do is maneuver the boat so that the compass remains in the direction you just obtained.
You will note that owning a ship on the system may be challenging, particularly with smaller and quicker boats, and you should consider it well done if you can maintain your route within five or so degrees of the specified course.
This will indicate that you have successfully navigated the system. So get out there and maneuver while you still can!