Shipbuilding takes digital leap with virtual platform to connect entire process
HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), the intermediary holding company for HD Hyundai’s shipbuilding business, has recently entered into a definitive agreement with Siemens Digital Industries Software. This collaboration aims to usher in a new era for the shipbuilding industry by implementing a cutting-edge marine platform that will revolutionize the entire shipbuilding process digitally.
Siemens and HD Hyundai Leading the Digital Transformation
Siemens Digital Industries Software, renowned for its expertise in industrial AI, automation, and digital twin software, is set to play a pivotal role in this transformative project. Tony Hemmelgarn, President and CEO of Siemens Digital Industries Software, highlighted the significance of this strategic collaboration, emphasizing the potential to redefine how shipyards design, build, and sustain the next generation of vessels. By leveraging Siemens’ digital capabilities and HD Hyundai’s operational excellence, the partnership aims to enhance shipbuilders’ efficiency, quality, and workforce productivity while bolstering global shipbuilding competitiveness.
A Vision for a Connected Shipbuilding Process
The envisioned platform will seamlessly integrate every stage of the shipbuilding process, including vessel design, production, supply chain management, quality control, maintenance, and sea trials. Powered by AI and digital technologies, this innovative platform will create a unified 3D-model-based data environment, enabling consistent information flow across all aspects of ship construction. Shipyards will have the ability to transmit real-time production updates and design changes directly to the production floor and supply chain, facilitating informed decision-making to prevent delays and quality issues.
Furthermore, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering plans to develop a virtual shipyard that replicates real-world shipyard operations. This virtual environment will enable the simulation of production processes and equipment operations, ultimately leading to the establishment of an autonomous manufacturing system that digitally connects every phase of ship construction.
The agreement between HD KSOE and Siemens was formalized in Washington, D.C., marking a significant milestone in the digital transformation of the shipbuilding industry. H.K. Kim, President & CEO of HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, emphasized the transformative potential of AI, digital twin, and automation technologies in reshaping how ships are designed, built, and operated. Together with Siemens, the partnership aims to accelerate the digital transformation of shipyards globally, contributing to the modernization and competitiveness of the U.S. shipbuilding industry.
This collaboration signifies a crucial step towards establishing a future-ready model for the shipbuilding industry, setting the stage for a more efficient, connected, and competitive shipbuilding landscape.
