Use case

Efficient Data Input for Automated TM-1 Report Generation in UTM Reporting App

TM1 Definition:

The TM1 form consolidates detailed thickness measurements for specific hull item / structural element within vessel longitudinal zones. Organized into "Forward" and "Aft" tables, further categorized by Port and Starboard sides, it enables comparison between front and back measurements.
Rows group measurements from the same transverse position and plate designation, along with the same plate thickness origin, aiding symmetrical analysis to identify structural irregularities.

Objective:

Demonstrate the process of inputting data to locate a thickness marker on a vessel's blueprint within the UTM Reporting app, with the goal of auto-populating data inside the TM-1 form to align with the report framework of the Classification Society.

Background:

A marine surveyor is on-site, tasked with using the UTM Reporting app to locate a thickness marker on the vessel's blueprint and ensure automatic data population in the TM1 form when generating the survey report.

Data Input Process within UTM App for Auto-Populating TM-1 Survey Form

1. Ensure the hull component (e.g., deck, side, bilge, or bottom plating) is linked to the TM-1 form

Linking the hull component auto-populates associated measurements in the TM-1 Excel template during report generation.

2. Set the plate names/numbers under each hull components linked to TM-1 (optional)

This step, while optional, ensures data consistency within the TM-1 form.

3. Access the Blueprint, Zoom In, and Add Markers:

• Utilize the app's zoom function to focus precisely on the area where you'll measure thickness.
• To add a marker to the plan, tap your selected location. A pop-up will guide you to input thickness measurement data, ensuring accurate auto-population of the TM-1 form.

4. Record Basic Information about the thickness measurement

• Select a hull item gauged
• Select the Plate Name/Number where the thickness gauging has been made (optional)
• Select the side (port or starboard)
• Input the thickness measurement value
• Optionally, input the origin of the measured plate's thickness for automatically calculation the diminution (recommended)

5. Specify Thickness Measurement Location: Forward or Aft

Selecting the general location (aft or forward) is essential as it determines the distribution of measurements within the TM-1 form, directing data to either the Aft or Forward table.

6. Select the Transverse Frame where the measurement has been made

By specifying the frame, you ensure that measurements taken on the same transverse frame are distributed on the same row in the report. This intelligent grouping enhances data comparison efficiency while reading the form, significantly streamlining the reporting process.

7. Indicate the Longitudinal Strake for the Measurement Location

Specifying the Longitudinal Strake is crucial as it enables the generation of one TM-1 form per strake, a requirement by the IACS. This structured approach simplifies data analysis, enhancing the readability and ease of measurement analysis.

8. Review and Confirm data linked to the Thickness Marker

9. Repeat Adding Thickness Markers to the Blueprint

Data Structure in TM-1 Survey Form - Post Excel Report Generation

• One TM-1 Form for each longitudinal Strake item
• Frame Item , Plate Name, Origin, and Maximum Allowable Diminution are the Common data for each thickness measurement displayed in the same row

Benefits:

Reduced Data Entry Workload:

• With the UTM Reporting app, surveyors input thickness measurements only ONCE, as opposed to the old-fashioned approach where data entry was required multiple times (3). This reduction in data redundancy not only saves time but also minimizes the risk of errors associated with manual data input.

Time Efficiency:

• The app streamlines the entire process, from locating thickness measurements on the blueprint to generating TM-1 forms. This significantly reduces the time spent on report preparation, allowing surveyors to focus more on their core inspection tasks and less on administrative work.

Reduced Risk of Errors:

• Manual data input, especially when done multiple times, can lead to errors and inconsistencies in the TM-1 form. The UTM Reporting app's automated data population ensures data accuracy and consistency, improving the reliability of the survey reports.

Enhanced Report Structure:

• The app's organization of data by transverse frames and longitudinal strakes creates a structured and IACS-compliant report format. This not only enhances the readability of the report but also simplifies the process of data comparison and analysis.

In summary, the UTM Reporting app offers significant benefits by reducing data redundancy, improving time efficiency, minimizing the risk of errors, and enhancing the overall structure of survey reports, making it a more efficient and reliable solution compared to the old-fashioned manual data entry process.