HHI and partners to commercialise autonomous navigation technology

Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), Avikus, Korean Register (KR) and Liberian Registry (LISCR) have joined forces on the commercialisation of an autonomous navigation system.

Under a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in this regard, the entities will focus on the commercialisation of the Hyundai Intelligent Navigation Assistant System (HiNAS 2.0).

The system is expected to be deployed on KR classed and LISCR registered ships next July.

Avikus’ HiNAS 2.0 navigation system provides optimal routes and speeds with the support of Hyundai Global Service’s Integrated Smartship Solution (ISS).

By using artificial intelligence (AI) technology the system helps identify the surrounding environment, including weather and wave heights, as well as nearby ships.

It can also help control the vessel’s steering commands in real-time.

HHI senior executive vice-president and chief technical officer Won-ho Joo said: “We are focusing on research and development for autonomous navigation, and some of our technologies have already been commercialised, taking the lead in the global market.

“As a pioneer in the autonomous ship sector, we will advance our technologies through various collaborations with other market leaders.”

Separately, HHI received design approval from Lloyd’s Register (LR) to develop a 40,000m³ liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO₂) carrier.

Claimed to be the world’s first 40,000m³ LCO₂ carrier, the 239m-long and 30m-wide vessel will consist of seven International Maritime Organization (IMO) Type C cargo tanks that will use a modern steel design.

LR will offer advice and guidance on technical regulations, as well as the development of the Type C storage tank using the new material.

The vessel will be used to transport LCO₂ under pressure, thereby helping to ship carbon extracted from the atmosphere to storage facilities.

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