HD Hyundai receives DNV AiP for cloud-based HiDTS digital twin system
HD Hyundai's Digital Twin Ship System Gets Approval at Gastech 2024, Setting New Standards for Future Ships
At Gastech 2024 in Houston, HD Hyundai Group achieved an important milestone by receiving Approval in Principle (AiP) for their cloud-based Hyundai Intelligent Digital Twin Ship (HiDTS) system. This approval was given by DNV, a classification society, marking the success of a three-year collaboration between DNV and HD Hyundai. The project focused on testing and verifying the use of digital twin technologies in ship systems.
Since 2022, HD Hyundai’s shipbuilding division, Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), has worked closely with DNV to validate digital twin technologies. These are virtual models that can mimic real-life ship systems to improve how ships operate. This project, known as Data-Driven Verification (DDV), has been a key effort to make sure these new technologies work safely and effectively in the real world. The project used DNV’s cloud environment in Trondheim, Norway, to test the systems.
The project was divided into three main phases, with each one testing different ship systems. Phase 1 focused on the Power Management System (PMS), Phase 2 tested the Engine Control System, and Phase 3 worked on the Gas Management and Cargo Handling systems (GMS and CHS). By the end of the project, all these systems were integrated into the HiDTS system, allowing them to operate smoothly as a single digital twin. This means that ship operators can now use a virtual model of the ship to monitor, control, and improve its performance.
In September 2024, the new integrated automation system, HiCONiS, was tested successfully in an LNG carrier during sea trials. This system had already been pre-approved and tested through the AiP process with DNV. The sea trials were conducted on a ship built by Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries, showing how the digital twin system works in real-world conditions.
Kwangpil Chang, the Chief Technology Officer of HD KSOE, emphasized how important it is to trust this new technology. He explained that digital twins could play a big role in the future of shipping, helping to reduce carbon emissions and pave the way for autonomous (self-operating) ships. Chang said, “We believe our digital twin technology will contribute to global decarbonization efforts.”
Ki-Dong Lee, CEO of HD Hyundai Marine Solution, also highlighted the benefits of digital twins. He mentioned that using these virtual models for testing ship systems can reduce the risk of errors and delays. Lee explained that the cloud-based system could change how people and equipment work together on ships, making the whole process safer and more efficient.
DNV’s Regional Manager for Maritime in Korea and Japan, Vidar Dolonen, also shared his thoughts. He explained that digital twin technology is crucial for helping the shipping industry meet its decarbonization goals. By improving energy efficiency, systems like HiDTS can help shipping companies reduce their carbon emissions, in line with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) targets.
Looking ahead, HD KSOE, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, HD Hyundai Marine Solution, and DNV plan to continue working together. They aim to explore more ways that digital twin and autonomous ship technologies can be used in large commercial vessels. The focus will be on ensuring these technologies follow international rules and regulations. They also plan to look into how these systems can be used in crew training and for managing complex or hazardous ship systems.
In summary, the approval of HD Hyundai’s HiDTS system at Gastech 2024 marks a significant step forward in the development of digital twin technologies for the maritime industry. This collaboration is set to shape the future of shipping by making it more efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly.
