When is it advisable to deactivate the wind sensor on a DP system?

Deactivating the wind sensor on a Dynamic Positioning (DP) system is advisable when a helicopter is about to land on your vessel because the landing of helicopters can cause significant disturbances to wind measurements. When helicopters approach, they generate their own wind patterns, which can interfere with the accuracy of the DP system’s positioning calculations.

In such cases, the erroneous wind readings could lead to unnecessary adjustments in the vessel's positioning system, potentially causing instability or unexpected movements when the crew needs the vessel to maintain a steady position for safe landings. By deactivating the wind sensor during this critical time, operators can ensure that the DP system relies on more stable inputs, minimizing the risk of miscalculating position and allowing for a safe and secure landing for the helicopter.

Other scenarios such as moving to a new location or performing maintenance on the DP system may not provide any immediate benefit from deactivating the wind sensor, as the need for accurate positioning is still essential. Operating in rough seas is also an inappropriate time to deactivate the wind sensor, as accurate wind measurements are crucial for managing the vessel's dynamics and ensuring safety in challenging conditions.