Making remote-controlled ships a reality

Client
VARD

Business
Ship design and shipbuilding

Headquarters
Ålesund, Norway, Shipyards in Norway, Romania, Brazil and Vietnam

Technological innovation in the maritime industry means that remote-controlled ships have moved out of the realms of science fiction. Together with Vard Electro, developers from twoday have spent over three years working on software that enables VARD’s advanced ships to be controlled from land.

Smart sensors at sea

So how can the controllers on land be certain that the vessels are safe and can avoid collisions or the impact of bad weather? The answer to this can be found in a cloud-based data solution. The remote-controlled ships are fitted with numerous sensors and on-ship IT systems that measure data points including position, speed and temperature.

The huge amount of data this creates is continuously collected and processed in the cloud solution. This has been designed to be both highly accurate and flexible. For example, it sends continuous position data from the vessel, while temperature data is sent less frequently. Not only does this allow the vessels to be safely controlled from shore, but the data collected can be used to improve operations. For example, it can be used to reduce fuel consumption, monitor CO2 emissions or to predict vessel maintenance, which can contribute to VARD’s environmental goals.

Robust security

In addition to the obvious challenge of handling and delivering precise data in real time, the solution has to withstand security risks. As remote-controlled vessels are used by the oil and gas industry to check underwater infrastructure, they have to comply with the strict safety requirements of the maritime and energy industries with the resilience to withstand cybersecurity threats.

twoday’s solution is integrated with VARD’s SeaQ integrated automation system and uses its clear and intuitive interface. It monitors navigation, machinery and power systems and ensures seamless and reliable communication between ship and shore.

Results

Improved vessel performance: Using the data, VARD can analyse and improve operational parameters, such as fuel consumption, predicted maintenance or manpower requirements.

Access to historic data: VARD can now retrieve data from an event long after it took place instead of only being able to see events using a live system.

Simpler commissioning workflow: Upgrades can be done more efficiently with no need for staff to be on the vessel

Fully integrated with SeaQ integrated automation system: The cloud solution has been integrated into VARD’s existing control systems for maximum ease of use.

”twoday have been able to use their knowledge of our business and the maritime sector to develop the system architecture we need. They are a valued strategic supplier that works closely with our own teams in the same location, which makes them essentially feel like part of our organization. This has undoubtedly contributed to the speed with which we’ve been able to complete this project.”

Inge Klokk
Team Leader, VARD

A group of twodayers visiting a VARD shipyard

Services delivered by twoday

Consultancy services
The twoday team worked closely with VARD to understand and use their knowledge of the legacy and signal system so the new Cloud environment would ensure data integrity, avoid redundancy and enable improved operations.

Process and system development
Built on Microsoft Azure technology, the solution has been implemented with clearly defined processes and routines for backups and issues. twoday also supported VARD with release notes and all required documentation.

Data architecture
All data collected in the solution is logged and stored so it can be easily retrieved to support VARD’s business objectives. This enables optimization, data retrieval and rights to support data use.

A valued partnership

As a one-stop shop for ship owners and operators looking for outstanding design, high-quality equipment and systems, and masterful project execution, VARD only works with suppliers who can match their high expectations.

For almost ten years, twoday has been a strategic partner to VARD providing advanced digital solutions and advisory services to all parts of its business. This long-term collaboration enables twoday to apply industry knowledge and specialist expertise to projects that can support VARD’s goal of building the ships of tomorrow today.

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