KONGSBERG RCU502 | Marine Remote Control Unit

Parameter Specification
Product Model RCU502
Manufacturer Kongsberg Maritime
Type Marine Remote Control Unit
I/O Capacity 64 digital / 16 analog points
Control Networks Dual-redundant CAN Bus, Ethernet TCP/IP
Protocols J1939, Modbus TCP, OPC UA
Processing Time <50 ms (command-to-actuation)
Power Supply 24 VDC ±20% (18-36 VDC)
Safety Rating IEC 61508 SIL 2, DNV GL DP(AA)
Environmental -25°C to +70°C, 95% RH
Enclosure IP66/67 aluminum, DNV TA type approved
Mounting Panel or DIN rail
Shock/Vibration 15g / 7g (IEC 60945)
Certifications ABS, Lloyds, Bureau Veritas
Categories: ,

Description

Product Overview
The ​KONGSBERG RCU502 is a robust Remote Control Unit designed for marine propulsion and dynamic positioning (DP) systems, serving as a critical interface between vessel machinery and integrated bridge systems. Engineered for harsh maritime environments, the ​RCU502 enables centralized control of thrusters, propellers, and auxiliary systems with deterministic response times (<50 ms) certified to DNV GL/ABS class rules. This modular unit supports SIL 2 safety integrity per IEC 61508, facilitating redundant command pathways for critical operations like emergency shutdown (ESD) and thruster fail-safe modes. With IP66/67-rated housing resistant to salt spray, vibration, and extreme temperatures, the ​KONGSBERG RCU502 provides reliable performance on offshore vessels, cruise ships, and naval platforms where operational continuity is paramount.


Technical Specifications

Parameter Specification
Product Model RCU502
Manufacturer Kongsberg Maritime
Type Marine Remote Control Unit
I/O Capacity 64 digital / 16 analog points
Control Networks Dual-redundant CAN Bus, Ethernet TCP/IP
Protocols J1939, Modbus TCP, OPC UA
Processing Time <50 ms (command-to-actuation)
Power Supply 24 VDC ±20% (18-36 VDC)
Safety Rating IEC 61508 SIL 2, DNV GL DP(AA)
Environmental -25°C to +70°C, 95% RH
Enclosure IP66/67 aluminum, DNV TA type approved
Mounting Panel or DIN rail
Shock/Vibration 15g / 7g (IEC 60945)
Certifications ABS, Lloyds, Bureau Veritas

Key Features & Advantages

Fail-Operational Redundancy:

  • Dual-independent processing channels with automatic switchover (<100 ms)
  • Watchdog timers and cyclic self-tests for continuous health monitoring
  • “Dead man’s switch” functionality for zero-delay thruster halt

Marine-Specific Engineering:

  • Salt-mist validated for 1,000+ hours (ISO 9227)
  • Galvanic isolation on all I/O (1.5 kV) prevents ground loops
  • Integrated surge protection (6 kV) for lightning strikes

RCU502

Seamless Integration:

  • Pre-mapped interfaces for Kongsberg ​K-Pos DP systems
  • Plug-and-play with ​Shaft Troll azimuth controllers
  • Built-in ​K-Chief 700 alarm system protocol conversion

Cybersecurity:

  • Hardware-enforced boot integrity (ECDSA signatures)
  • MAC address filtering and VLAN segmentation (IEC 62443-3-3)

Application Areas

  • Dynamic Positioning: Joystick control of azimuth thrusters in offshore supply vessels
  • Cruise Ship Propulsion: Integrated rudder/thruster control for precise maneuvering
  • Naval Systems: Redundant control of waterjet propulsion in patrol boats
  • FPSO/Tanker Operations: Ballast pump sequencing with SIL 2 interlocks
  • Fishing Vessels: Trawl winch tension control via CAN Bus interface
  • Icebreakers: Azipod® torque monitoring with ice-load detection

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