Ship's cargo handling system with the optical fiber sensor technology application

It is now well recognized that the optical fiber technology, because of its advantages, may be applied in measuring different nonelectrical and electrical values in various ship's systems. One of the most important advantages of optic technology over conventional is the ability to use one single strand of optical fiber to replace sensors and their wires required for measuring some considerable electrical and non electrical values in ship's systems. Fiber optic sensors are immune to electrical interference and corrosion and do not require to create electrical pathway. This paper outlines the application of fiber optic in some elements in cargo handling on board a ship. The application of optical fiber technology were proposed by authors based on elements of cargo handling system and associated equipment (longitudinal and transversal strength of ship's hull, temperature readings at cargo space and reef container, draft readings, liquid level in tanks sounding pipe). Real time monitoring cargo handling elements and cargo carried as well, together with optical fiber sensors, provide the knowledge of the seaworthiness and cargo worthiness of a considered ship.