Capabilities: DynaSim^© is a ship maneuvering simulator that incorporates state of the art models of ship motion and is capable of executing simulations of ship maneuvers in complex environment in real or accelerated time. It employs modular mathematical models for the various components of the ship (hull, propeller(s), rudder(s), thrusters), ship-tugboat interaction, environmental effects (wind, current, waves), and waterways (bottom, pier walls) to achieve a sophisticated and accurate mathematical model for the ship. These models are based on collective experience resulting from development of many simulators. DynaSim^© runs on virtually any PC or laptop with a Windows operating system  and has a user-friendly interactive graphic interface. It achieves capabilities not found on expensive stand-alone full-mission simulators on easily accessible computers.

The simulator operates in the following three simulation modes:

• Fully user controlled
• Standard ship certification maneuvers
• Computer controlled (auto-piloted) maneuvers along prescribed routes

In the user controlled mode, the user controls the rudder, the engine, and lateral thrusters through a graphic control panel to simulate navigation of a ship or tugging process of a tugboat. In the standard maneuver mode, DynaSim^© can simulate a ship performing one of the standard maneuvers recommended by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for evaluating the hydrodynamic characteristics and maneuverability of a ship.

Under the computer controlled maneuvers mode,the simulator can model ship traffic in the open ocean or in a restricted environment. The behaviors of the ships in the simulation are based on the U.S. Code of Conduct of Vessels. Traffic control parameters can also be adjusted by the users.