Bureau Veritas, CMA CGM, and SDARI Collaborate on Assisted Container Vessel Concept Development
In a groundbreaking move, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV), CMA CGM, and Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) have joined forces to embark on a Joint Development Project (JDP) aimed at exploring the feasibility of an assisted container vessel concept. This initiative, announced during the prestigious SMM event, underscores a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and crew welfare in the maritime industry.
Exploring Enhanced Onboard Decision-Support Capabilities
The core objective of the JDP is to delve into the potential of digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI) enhancement, and decision-support technologies in bolstering energy efficiency and operational performance onboard container vessels. By integrating these advanced technologies, the project aims to not only elevate the safety standards for crew and cargo but also streamline operational processes, reduce crew workload, and provide comprehensive digital-assisted support.
Collaborative Expertise Driving Innovation
Bringing together a wealth of expertise in container shipping, ship design, and classification, the JDP will craft a technology-neutral assisted-vessel concept that optimizes operational efficiencies while upholding human oversight and control. CMA CGM will contribute operational insights, use cases, and the shipowner perspective, while SDARI will bring its proficiency in merchant ship design, systems engineering, and smart ship technologies to the table. Additionally, BV will lend its extensive experience in independent classification, safety, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance to the project.
Detailed Assessment and Concept Development
The collaborative effort will involve a meticulous assessment of priority areas and levels of assistance across key onboard functions. Subsequently, a selected concept will be meticulously scrutinized for technical feasibility, safety compliance, regulatory alignment, and commercial viability. This will culminate in the formulation of a comprehensive Concept of Operations and Basis of Design, delineating the roles of crew, assisted functions, and shore-based support. Safety and human-factor assessments will be conducted using a risk-based approach in alignment with BV Rules.
Towards Realization and Implementation
The refined concept will be translated into technical specifications and an Approval in Principle application, accompanied by high-level capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) estimates, as well as a strategic development roadmap. This holistic approach underscores a commitment to harnessing technological advancements to revolutionize the maritime industry, setting a new standard for operational excellence and safety in container vessel operations.
This collaborative endeavor signifies a pivotal moment in the maritime sector, where innovation and collaboration converge to shape the future of container shipping. Stay tuned as BV, CMA CGM, and SDARI chart a course towards unparalleled efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the maritime domain.
