ABS and HD Hyundai have signed a complete memorandum of understanding (MoU) to proceed working collectively on industry-leading autonomous initiatives. The settlement builds on the 2 organizations’ shared efforts to increase the event of autonomous navigation expertise into vital vessel equipment and security programs and covers 4 areas:
- Artificial Intelligence-based Autonomous Machinery Health Management Function (HiCBM)
- Artificial Intelligence-based Autonomous Safety Management Function (HiCAMS)
- Artificial Intelligence-based Autonomous LNG Fuel Gas Supply System (Hi-GAS+ SMART FGSS)
- Artificial Intelligence-based Smart LNG Boil-off Gas Management System (Hi-GAS+ AI CHS)
“This is an exciting time for innovation and technology breakthroughs in maritime, and we are looking forward to continuing to evolve industry solutions with HD Hyundai to drive more efficient operations and advances in safety, addressing the challenges of today and those in the future,” stated Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO.
The scope of the MoU on autonomous initiatives builds on a earlier Strategic Framework Agreement that the businesses signed in 2022. Under that settlement, ABS labored with HD Hyundai subsidiaries, Avikus and Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering (KSOE). There had been a number of main achievements together with the demonstration of expertise developed by Avikus, enabling the 180,000 cubic meter liquified pure fuel (LNG) service, Prism Courage, to sail in autonomous mode, below direct supervision, for roughly half of its voyage throughout the Pacific Ocean.
“The Prism Courage voyage was a milestone for the entire shipping industry and demonstrated the potential of artificial intelligence and autonomous functions to contribute to safe navigation at sea,” stated Wiernicki.
“HD Hyundai is one of the most advanced companies in developing and commercializing autonomous navigation technology. We are excited to expand our work with ABS, a leader in the industry in supporting autonomous projects. Through this agreement with ABS, we expect to further advance autonomous vessel technology that will support autonomous engine room operations as well as safety management,” stated Ki-sun Chung, President and CEO of HD Hyundai.
ABS and HD Hyundai are coordinating joint growth initiatives (JDPs) to start within the first quarter of 2023.