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• The route, as an orderly list of way points which, when linked, connect together the 
ports of departure and destination. Connection of the way points by means of straight 
lines produces the set courses for the individual sections of the route and the distances 
between the way points. 
• Speed/time profile of the planned route: set speeds for individual sections of the 
planned route as well as times, particularly arrival times at selected way points as a 
function of distances and set speeds 
• Description of the set track, i.e. detailed definition of the track which is to be followed. 
By means of the track, fundamental parameters for the subsequent manoeuvring are 
thus provided: 
• Stipulation of turning radii or ROT for course changing points 
• Determination of rudder setting points 
• Limit values for the maximum transverse and longitudinal deviation (track limits), i.e. 
maximum permitted deviation from the defined set track. The limits defined here must 
be compatible with the geometrical or manoeuvring parameters defined for the set 
track and the characteristic properties of the ship (accuracy of the sensor technology, 
manoeuvring capabilities). 
• Manoeuvring limit values, i.e. maximum ROT and maximum rudder position. These 
values are closely linked with the set track, since requirements on rudder setting points 
and turning radii can likewise be derived from the maximum ROT or rudder position. 
These limit values are moreover dependent on the particular running speed achieved. 
As already mentioned above, the meteorological and hydrographic input data necessary for voyage 
planning are likewise recorded as part of this task. 
2.1.2 Functionalities 
Bearing in mind the output information listed above, the following functionalities must be available to fulfil 
track planning: 
1. Recording input data: 
1.1 Recording hydrographic data 
1.2 Recording meteorological data 
2. Route planning 
2.1 Fixing the way points between ports of departure and destination, i.e. determining 
geographical positions at which changes in course are necessary. 
2.2 Determining the route, i.e. connecting the route as well as determining set course 
and distances between way points 
2.3 Determining the speed/time profile: fixing set speeds for the individual sections of 
the route and determining expected arrival or passage times for selected posi 
tions.