Abstract
This paper proposes an autopilot system using a fuzzy PID controller to satisfy performances required for the automatic navigation of ships under various marine circumstances. The existing autopilot system using a PD type controller has difficulties in eliminating a steady-state error and compensating nonlinear characteristics of ships. The autopilot system using the proposed fuzzy PID controller has a self-tuning ability, an ability to compensate nonlinear characteristics, and an ability to turn at constant angular velocity. Therefore. it can naturally make a steady-state error zero, compensate nonlinear dynamic effect of ships, have an adaptability to parameter variation owing to shallow water effect, and have an ability to turn ship's course rapidly without overshoot through procedures of acceleration, constant, and deceleration of angular velocity for large course-changing.