One of the key features of the new ro-ro train ferry berth in Dover Harbour is the computerized control system that governs movement of the associated 105 m long, ship-to-shore bridgework. Representing the first of its kind, the bridge control system ‘senses’ ship movement and changes the bridge geometry to maintain rail stock transit. The robust algorithms are discussed in the context of ‘smart’ structures, in which response to external actions is actively controlled so that specified kinematic parameters are minimized.
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