Autoship Systems Corporation (ASC), a marine software developer of load planning software, loading instrument software and integrated CAD/CAM programs, announced the release of the crane and deck cargo handling module for Autoload 6.0. This module allows the user to simulate the process of loading heavy or oversized cargo onto the vessel using a crane or dual crane process. Graphical stowage of cargo on deck is also included in this new plug-in.

Using the crane module's set of functions, the user is able to move cargo from the berth to its position onboard the vessel, utilising the modules drag-and-drop capability. The user has two choices of using the cranes. He first hooks the cargo onto the crane, and then either graphically drags it to its final location on the vessel, or types in the coordinates of the final cargo location. Vessel stability and strength conditions are automatically updated for each change of load and attitude of the crane(s). Warnings are issued when specific limits or restrictions are violated.