SeaQ Remote will provide centralised remote operation of automated vessel control systems and deck machinery for 14 newbuild marine robotic vessels Fincantieri group’s Vard is building at its shipyards for Ocean Infinity, reports Riviera.
SeaQ suite of automation systems
SeaQ Remote unifies the SeaQ suite of automation systems into one user interface with the full range of remote functionality from shore, enabling remote monitoring and control of vessel navigation, propulsion and automation systems, for unmanned operations.
“This represents a technological leap,” said Vard Electro chief executive Andrea Qualizza. “It is a natural next step in our evolution based on long-established expertise in supply and integration of advanced SeaQ automated control systems for such areas as energy management, propulsion, bridge and navigation on more than 300 vessels.”
Vard Electro’s SeaQ portfolio consists of solutions for power management, propulsion, automation, navigation and communications.
“We are now investing heavily in autonomous technology and digitalisation, supported by synergies in the wider Fincantieri group,” said Mr Qualizza.
This is in line with market demands for cost-efficient and green operations, reduced crewing and remote management.
SeaQ Remote goes beyond automation, navigation and IT management, as it extends smart data-driven functionality to operational technology (OT) on the vessel and enables remote operation of existing machinery systems such as engines, propellers and thrusters.
Onboard machinery is connected through sensor networks streaming real-time data via the cloud to an onshore control centre. Sensor data is unified within the user interface for enhanced awareness of the status of onboard systems.
Overall operations
Onshore operators can gain an a fleetwide overview from a centralised location to optimise overall operations, while cyber-security safeguards are maintained to prevent system intrusion.
Vard Electro said this would enable fuel consumption monitoring from shore to help operators reduce bunkering costs and emissions.
SeaQ Remote facilitates condition monitoring for preventive maintenance on ship systems, reducing vessel downtime and improving safety. It can also be used to automate key tasks such as reporting to lessen the crew workload.
“The key benefits of this technology are lean manning, safety and having an expert in the loop 24/7 to ensure automated systems on the vessel are running smoothly,” said Vard Electro SeaQ Remote product manager Ronny Tomren. “This in turn will enhance the cost-efficiency and sustainability of operations.”
SeaQ Remote is being deployed on the newbuilds, which are powered by batteries and are being prepared for hybrid fuel cells, and will be controlled from shore using dynamic positioning to DP2 class.
“This newbuild contract is the first commercial application of SeaQ Remote and we are now targeting further deliveries for both retrofits and newbuilds, as part of a turnkey solution with automated control systems,” said Vard Electro vice president for products Øystein Longva.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe
Source: Riviera
