Hyundai Heavy Industries introduces new integrated smart ship technology

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Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) recently introduced a new maritime information and communications technology (ICT) solution designed to standardize ways of navigation and analyze real-time information in order to effectively and economically manage fleets of ships.

Described by Lloyd’s Register as the first of its kind for the industry, Hyundai’s Integrated Smart Ship Solution (ISSS) provides a variety of data to ship operators to maximize economic efficiencies including optimal navigation routes, travel speed, slope statuses for the front and back hulls, and ways to lessen the resistance a ship takes on voyage.

HHI first launched a version of its smart ship solution in 2011 and has since implemented the technology to approximately 300 ships as of 2017.

“HHI’s technology seeks to align with delivering the key benefits we believe the maritime industry will most benefit from through the adoption of connected, digital and autonomous technologies as the next generation of shipping embraces digitalization,” Luis Benito, director of Marine and Offshore Innovation, Strategy, and Research for Lloyd’s Register, said.

“According to Clarkson Research, about 6,500 ships are to be ordered globally for the next five years. Considering the global shipbuilding market share HHI takes up now, ISSS is to be installed on approximately 700 ships for the comparable time period.”

HHI’s announcement comes approximately two years prior to the implementation of e-Navigation technology to the industry by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized agency within the United Nations (UN) responsible for regulating international shipping.