This section focuses on the practical experience at the port. In Part 2: How Smartdock is technically retrofitted, which motors are supported, how much the system costs, and what security features safeguard the app-based control.
A smartphone instead of a joystick: what Smartdock is designed to do
With Smartdock Thitronik has launched a retrofit solution designed to make harbour manoeuvres significantly easier – particularly for solo skippers. The skipper can control the engine and bow thruster via smartphone from anywhere on board. We put the system through its paces.
Almost every engine manufacturer now offers Joystick systems which allow the propulsion system, steering and bow thruster to be operated simultaneously. Prices usually start at just 15,000 euros – and in some cases, the price does not even include installation by a specialist firm. Older engines are ineligible for such systems anyway. Retrofitting is therefore virtually impossible.
This is where Smartdock comes in. The technology is kept as simple as possible for the end user and can be operated via a smartphone. “I wanted to go out on the water on my own, but without having to run around the boat like a headless chicken, throwing the lines over everywhere,” says Smartdock developer Mark Tietje, explaining the idea behind his product. We’re testing it on a Kiel Classic 44 in Eckernförde.
Thitronik: Not your typical start-up
Founded in 1984, Thitronik initially focused on marine electronics. In 2010, there was a change of ownership – and with it a shift in focus towards electronics for motorhomes. Nine years later, the company moved from Kiel to Eckernförde; shortly afterwards, Smartdock was launched. It is therefore not a traditional start-up: the company now employs more than eleven engineers, who also work on Smartdock. Support is provided entirely in-house – anyone who calls is put through directly to a knowledgeable contact person, something the manufacturer says it attaches great importance to.
Smartdock at the harbour: First impressions from the field
Docking and undocking In principle, anyone can use it even without Smartdock – in a sense, the system is a technical add-on. However, anyone who is on board alone or simply wants to make manoeuvring easier will find Smartdock a real help.
This becomes apparent very quickly during testing. The system responds instantly: there is no perceptible delay between pressing a button on the smartphone and the boat’s response. According to Tietje, this is down to the fast connection between the control units and the app.
It’s also intuitive to use. After just a few minutes, you’ll have got the hang of the app and will be able to use the system as if it were second nature. Of the three views the app offers, we like the third one best – though that’s a matter of personal preference.
Steering and tackling at the same time
The biggest advantage of Smartdock is that the helmsman can always be exactly where he’s needed. If, for example, lines need to be cast from the foredeck, he can stand right there and, at the touch of a button, manoeuvre the boat a few centimetres forwards, backwards or sideways. This leaves at least one hand free for the line or the boat hook.
The freedom to choose the location also often provides a better overview of the overall situation than many helm stations do. This made it possible to manoeuvre the bow of the Kiel Classic right up to within about five centimetres of the pier – something that would have been virtually impossible from the helm station due to the lack of visibility.
The system is particularly helpful when the wind comes into play. If the boat is pushed away from the jetty by a gust whilst mooring, you can adjust the line and countersteer at the same time, without having to run back to the helm first. The so-called ‘High Mode’ is designed for such moments, allowing all systems to be used simultaneously. This slightly increases the power output, making the boat significantly more agile.
Smartdock is no substitute for seamanship
Smartdock does not moor or unmoor the boat automatically. If you are unable to assess the wind, the current or your own boat, this system will not make you a better skipper. It does not do the actual work for you, but merely makes it easier. It’s not about steering the boat entirely via a smartphone – rather, it’s about those final few centimetres. That’s precisely where Smartdock really comes into its own.
Click here for Part 2: How Smartdock is technically retrofitted, which motors are supported, how much the system costs, and what security features safeguard the app-based control.
A smartphone instead of a steering column: is this the most useful aid for one-handed cyclists, or does too much technology make manoeuvring in harbours unnecessarily complicated? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology