Vard Electro aims to facilitate a new generation of larger robotic vessels with the launch of SeaQ Remote to provide centralized remote operation of automated ship control systems and deck machinery in support of lean crewing, lower costs, safety and sustainability.

The new product, which will see its debut delivery on a total of 14 newbuild marine robotic vessels contracted with shipbuilder VARD, is designed to unify the SeaQ suite of automation systems into a single user interface with the full range of remote functionality from shore.

“This represents a technological leap that is also the 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,” says Vard Electro’s CEO Andrea Qualizza.

“We are now investing heavily in autonomous technology and digitalization, supported by synergies in the wider Fincantieri group, in line with market demands for cost-efficient and green operations, capitalizing on our long and proven experience in the shipbuilding industry.”

Remote control and awareness

Going beyond automated navigation and other IT systems on the bridge, SeaQ Remote extends smart data-driven functionality to operational technology (OT) in the vessel hull as it enables remote operation of existing machinery systems such as engines, propellers and thrusters.

Such machinery is connected by sensors that can stream real-time data via the cloud to an onshore control center. Merged data from these sensors on a unified user interface provides a smarter way to gain an enhanced awareness of the status of onboard systems.

Constant surveillance of OT systems using sensors also enables data-driven management of vessel operations with a fleet-wide overview from a centralized location to optimize overall operations, while cybersecurity safeguards are maintained to prevent system intrusion.

For example, this allows fuel consumption monitoring to cut costs and emissions; condition monitoring for preventive maintenance on vital systems, thereby reducing vessel downtime and improving safety; and automation of key tasks such as reporting to lessen the crew workload.

In a further advance on existing remote technology, SeaQ Remote also supports a remote deck machinery interface to facilitate some deck operations in support of reduced manning and enhanced safety onboard.

“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. This in turn will enhance the cost-efficiency and sustainability of operations,” says Vard Electro’s SeaQ Remote Product Manager, Ronny Tomren.

Turnkey solution with automated control systems

This is being demonstrated on the newbuilds being constructed by VARD that will have battery technology installed and will also be prepared for hybrid fuel cells. These marine robotic vessels will be operated from shore, making them among the first DP2 vessels capable of remote operation worldwide.

They will feature the full range of SeaQ solutions and equipment required for remote operations, with an advanced software and extended hardware platform that unifies control of all onboard equipment to efficiently manage remote operations.

Vard Electro’s Vice President Products, Øystein Longva, says: “This newbuild contract is the first commercial application of SeaQ Remote and we are now targeting further deliveries for both retrofits and newbuilds, also as part of a turnkey solution with automated control systems.”