Top 5 Benefits Of Raster Charts In Navigation

A raster navigational chart is an accurate digital image comprised of pixels, displayed on an electronic screen. Each pixel has a unique color or it has no color. The pattern of the colored and the empty pixels gives shape to the individual features of the chart. Ideal for both planning and navigation, they can help simplify operational tasks and improve situational awareness.

Using the formatted images in electronic display systems called Raster Chart Display Systems (RCDS), mariners receive accurate real-time vessel positions. Hence they are also known as marine navigation charts.

Benefits furnished by raster charts have been mentioned below:

1.    The geographical loci of each cell is implied by its position in the cell matrix. No geographic coordinates are stored, other than an origin point such as bottom left corner.
2.    Because of the nature of the data storage method, analysis is normally easy to program and quick to perform.
3.    The inherent nature of raster maps, for example one attribute maps, is ideally suited for mathematical modeling and quantitative analysis.
4.    Discrete data, like forestry stands, is housed equally well as continuous data, say for example elevation data and facilitates the integration of the two data kinds.
5.    Grid cell systems are thoroughly compatible with raster based output devices. Such as electrostatic plotters and graphic terminals.

Read the ISGOTT for the Safe Carriage Of Crude Oil And Petroleum Products On Tankers

Carrying and handling cargo that consists of petroleum products and crude oil on tankers and at terminals, requires precision as well as the know how of safety rules and regulations. The recommended operating procedures continuously undergo change. And that is what makes it all the more important for the concerned people to remain up to date with the current developments.

The ISGOTT is as important as cruising guides. Elaborated as the International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals, it is the ultimate handbook to be studied and followed so that best practice and legislation can be ensured as per the current updates at every stage.

The guide is basically divided into the following sections.

1. General information
2. Section on the management of tanker and terminal interface
3. Tanker information
4. Terminal information

Naturally, it is an extremely helpful tool and that is why all the concerned operators at present are urged to make full use of it. Moreover, the stress is laid on ensuring the recommendations are read and completely understood before they can be followed for certain. Though it is not a definitive description, the guide continues to provide the best technical guidance on tanker and terminal operations, maintaining a consistent approach to operational procedures.