Dutch gas and LNG carrier operator Anthony Veder and classification society Bureau Veritas have completed a pilot for live remote class surveys.
The duo completed the surveys using a wearable device and augmented reality technology.
The companies said in a statement that success of this pilot opens up the way for fully remote class surveys.
The two companies plan to further roll out this service in the following months.
These surveys, where the surveyor does not have to travel towards a vessel, could become useful during the Covid-19 crisis.
It not only “improves the efficiency of surveys, but also provides a good solution in times when it is difficult to travel towards vessels”.
The two companies said that these remote surveys “are able to reach the same quality level as traditional onboard surveys”.
In addition, Anthony Veder says that it will use this technology to support vessels in remote areas.
The pilot scenario included three conditions of class onboard one of Anthony Veder’s vessels.
The pilot took place on the bridge, cargo control room, engine control room and engine room.
The duo used a wearable augmented reality device enabling a live video and audio connection with the Anthony Veder office in Rotterdam and Bureau Veritas office in Paris.
A remote class surveyor guided the crew onboard the vessel through the different class items.
The surveyor used live connection and gathered evidence by taking pictures and recordings using the wearable device, the statement said.