The December issue of the World of Petroleum and Bitumen
WPB: H-Line Shipping, a prominent South Korean shipowning firm, plans to integrate autonomous navigation technology into a fleet of up to 30 ships.
The company has selected an artificial intelligence-based navigation solution provided by Avikus, a division of HD Hyundai specializing in autonomous systems. The initial phase of the project involves equipping five vessels with the Hyundai Intelligent Navigation Assistant System (HiNAS). Following the successful demonstration of its safety and operational efficiency, the system will be rolled out to an additional 25 vessels.
According to Avikus, HiNAS uses data from various onboard sensors and bridge equipment to guide ships, optimizing their speed and routes for maximum efficiency. The system offers level two autonomy as defined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS). This level ensures that while the system provides advanced control, human crew members remain on board.
The IMO’s MASS framework categorizes autonomy into four levels. Levels one and two include ships with onboard crews utilizing automated systems. Level three encompasses vessels remotely operated without crew on board, while level four represents fully autonomous ships capable of independent decision-making without human intervention.
H-Line’s decision to adopt the AI-based system aligns with its goal to enhance operational safety, alleviate crew workload, and improve fuel efficiency. “Embracing technological advancements is vital to meeting stricter environmental regulations and ensuring a sustainable future,” stated Myung-deuk Seo, CEO of H-Line Shipping.
Avikus highlights a significant achievement with its system, claiming a 15% reduction in fuel consumption during a 9,344-kilometer voyage. The company also reports having secured contracts for 500 HiNAS units, both for newbuild ships and retrofitted vessels.
By WPB
Shipping, Autonomous, Navigation, Technology
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