Description

The KONGSBERG DPS 112 is a distributed processing station (DPS) designed as a core field-level controller within Kongsberg Maritime’s renowned K-Chief 500 and K-Chief 600 integrated automation systems (IAS). As a ruggedized, marine-certified I/O module, the KONGSBERG DPS 112 provides local signal acquisition and control execution for engine room machinery, power generation units, and auxiliary systems aboard commercial vessels, offshore platforms, and naval ships. It serves as the critical interface between physical sensors/actuators and the central supervisory network, enabling real-time monitoring, alarm management, and autonomous control logic.

Built to meet stringent maritime standards including DNV-GL, ABS, and Lloyd’s Register, the KONGSBERG DPS 112 operates reliably in high-humidity, high-vibration, and electrically noisy marine environments. The KONGSBERG DPS 112 supports both digital and analog I/O channels and communicates with the central processing units via dual redundant CAN bus networks, ensuring continuous data flow even during partial network faults. Its modular architecture allows seamless integration into new builds or retrofits, making it a cornerstone of modern shipboard automation strategies focused on safety, efficiency, and reduced crew workload.

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

Robust Marine-Grade Design for Harsh Environments: The DPS 112 is engineered specifically for the demanding conditions of maritime operations. Its printed circuit boards feature conformal coating to resist salt spray and humidity, while components are selected for wide temperature tolerance and long-term reliability. This ensures stable performance in engine rooms where temperatures fluctuate and vibrations from main engines are constant.

Dual Redundant CAN Bus Communication: A key strength of the DPS 112 is its dual independent CAN bus interfaces, which provide fault-tolerant communication with the central K-Chief controllers. If one bus fails due to cable damage or connector corrosion—a common issue on aging vessels—the other maintains full I/O connectivity, preventing loss of critical alarms or control functions. This redundancy is essential for compliance with unmanned machinery space (UMS) and bridge control requirements.

Flexible I/O Configuration and Local Intelligence: Unlike simple remote I/O blocks, the DPS 112 incorporates local processing capability, allowing it to execute basic control logic (e.g., pump sequencing, valve interlocks) without waiting for commands from the central CPU. This reduces network traffic and improves response time during emergencies. Channels can be software-configured as digital input/output or analog input/output (typically 4–20 mA or 0–10 V), offering adaptability across diverse sensor and actuator types.

Seamless Integration with K-Chief Ecosystem: The DPS 112 is fully compatible with Kongsberg’s K-Chief 500/600 engineering tools, enabling rapid configuration, online diagnostics, and firmware updates via the system’s operator workstations. Its standardized form factor and wiring practices simplify spares management and technician training across global fleets.

Application Field

The DPS 112 is predominantly deployed in marine and offshore automation systems where reliability and certification are paramount. On container ships, tankers, and LNG carriers, the DPS 112 monitors and controls main propulsion systems, auxiliary generators, fuel oil purifiers, and bilge pumps—ensuring compliance with IMO regulations and class society rules. In offshore support vessels and drilling rigs, the DPS 112 integrates with dynamic positioning (DP) and power management systems to maintain station-keeping stability during critical operations.

Naval applications leverage the DPS 112 for damage control systems, fire detection loops, and ventilation control in combat ships, where electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and shock resistance are rigorously tested. Additionally, in ferry and cruise ship engine rooms, the DPS 112 enables remote monitoring from the bridge or technical office, reducing the need for routine manual rounds and supporting predictive maintenance strategies. Even in brownfield retrofits, the DPS 112 offers a drop-in upgrade path from older Kongsberg modules, preserving existing cabling while enhancing diagnostic capabilities. Its role as a dependable field node makes the DPS 112 indispensable in any K-Chief-based automation architecture.

Related Products

• DPS 111: Earlier variant with fewer I/O channels; predecessor to DPS 112

• DPS 113: Enhanced version with higher channel density or specialized I/O (e.g., thermocouple inputs)

• CPU 550 / CPU 650: Central processing units for K-Chief 500/600 that communicate with DPS 112

• LPU 112: Local Processing Unit often used alongside DPS 112 for operator interface panels

• FIM 112: Field Interface Module providing additional isolation or signal conditioning for DPS 112 inputs

• K-Master: Modern successor platform to K-Chief; not directly compatible but serves similar system roles

• DIO 112: Dedicated digital I/O expansion module that may complement DPS 112 in large systems

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: Before installing the DPS 112, verify that the 24 VDC power supply meets ripple and voltage stability requirements specified in the K-Chief system manual. Ensure CAN bus cabling uses shielded twisted-pair cable with proper termination (120 Ω) at both ends to prevent signal reflections. Mount the DPS 112 on a clean DIN rail or panel with adequate ventilation, avoiding proximity to high-power cables or heat sources. Confirm correct node address via DIP switches or software configuration before powering up to avoid network conflicts.

Maintenance recommendations: The DPS 112 requires minimal routine maintenance but should be inspected annually for signs of corrosion on terminals, loose connectors, or condensation inside the enclosure. Use Kongsberg’s K-Chief Service Tool or Operator Workstation to monitor I/O status, error logs, and CAN bus health—early detection of intermittent faults can prevent unplanned downtime. Keep spare DPS 112 units in climate-controlled storage and validate their functionality periodically using a test bench. Always back up system configuration before replacing a failed DPS 112 to ensure seamless reintegration.