DNV GL adds digital, smart vessel notations

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(OSLO, Norway) — The maritime industry is undergoing a massive shift as vessels transform into sophisticated sensor hubs, generating data and connecting through satellites in an expanding interconnected web. To enable the uptake of these systems and unlock the associated efficiencies, DNV GL is launching a new chapter to its rules for ship classification: Digital Features. The new chapter was launched with three new notations (D-INF, DDV, REW) on Oct. 28 and will enter into force on Jan. 1, 2021. In addition, a new Smart vessel notation (Smart) – a framework for assessing and visualizing digital vessel features – was introduced.

Vessels, their systems and components are now increasingly linked to the internet, making them accessible from anywhere and part of a network of online maritime assets. This is giving the industry access to real-time data, enabling increased automation, decision support, remote monitoring, and overall boosts to safety and performance. At the same time this data – collected in cloud storage and used as the basis for digital twins and other operational, design and construction simulations – is having a dramatic effect on the way the industry looks at information, while opening up new business models and risks.

Modern Class Tanker 1288x511 Tcm8 188510

“The pandemic has triggered a renaissance in the maritime industry, as we see greater and deeper adoption of digital solutions to enhance safety, sustainability and efficiency,” said Knut Orbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV GL-Maritime. “The key to maximizing the potential of these digital technologies and strategies is to enable companies to more easily build trust in them. With the new Digital Features chapter, we have laid a clear class foundation for three of the most essential building blocks of maritime digitalization.”

The Digital Features chapter (Part 6 Chapter 11) is supported by two new DNV GL class guidelines and sets out the basic features of a smart vessel and how new digital solutions can be implemented to unlock new efficiencies and opportunities. The three initial notations to be offered are: data collection infrastructure, D-INF; data-driven verification, DDV; and remote witnessing preparedness /network and connectivity, REW.

The class notation D-INF sets out the requirements for the complete data collection infrastructure, including an onboard data server, a data relay component and remote data server, as well as the connection to shore. This applies to onboard equipment delivered by both the yard and the owner when applied for class purposes.

DDV sets the requirements for the gathering, treatment and delivery of collected data to ensure the quality of this data for use in a class assessment. This means that for the specified systems, the verified data can be used in the certification and classification of those systems in maritime and offshore vessels. The notation covers several different verification methods, including self-verifying systems and digital twins.

REW provides the requirements for systems and solutions used in remote witnessing. To enable remote interaction with technical experts the notation outlines the onboard arrangements for live streaming throughout the vessel. Two qualifiers indicate functionality for real time witnessing, remote test functions and sharing of system display information (HMI), with or without remote control of the system enabled.

Finally, Smart vessel is a voluntary notation that provides a framework for assessing and visualizing digital vessel features. The three qualifiers (OPM, OPH and EEN) demonstrate a vessel is utilising enhancements that improve operations, efficiency, and reduce environmental impacts.

“Digital Features and Smart are exciting next steps in our classification journey because they enable owners, operators and yards to qualify and demonstrate their latest technologies,” said Orbeck-Nilssen. “Right across the industry we are seeing a wave of innovation that is propelling the industry forward. These new rules and notations give our customers the perfect platform for demonstrating cutting edge technologies and unlocking the value they bring to the market.”

A description of the rules and links can be found here.

– DNV GL

By Professional Mariner Staff