Classification society LR is joining forces with South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy and its parent KSOE to develop digital twin technology to support the digitalization of the maritime industry and the growing demand for large LNG carriers.
In that regard, the three firms have signed a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday at the Gastech exhibition and conference in Dubai.
As part of the memorandum, KSOE and HHI would further develop its Hyundai intelligent digital twin ship (HIDTS) for a type B gas containment tank suitable for an 174,000-cbm LNG carrier, according to LR.
On the other side, LR said it would perform audit, review, risk assessment, verification and validation activities to support the Korean duo with the “successful development and implementation of the digital twin.”
LR’s approach would cover the entire life cycle of the digital twin technology, from conceptual design stage to the operation and large-scale commercialization of HIDTS, it said.
This follows LR’s approval in principle digital twin ready awarded to KSOE for its HIDTS earlier this year.
Fast-tracking digital twin tech
“Building upon the technical expertise of each party involved, the MoU will fast track digital twin technology solutions needed to help maritime successfully and safely digitalize,” said Luis Benito, director of innovation at LR.
“The HIDTS solution creates a digital twin environment in a cyber space which is identical to the maritime environment where a vessel is operated and tests the performance of key equipment and facilities of LNG carriers, such as the dual-fuel engine, gas supply system and power and control systems,” said Byoung-Hoon Kwon, VP of KSOE.
“This is a meaningful step in the advancement of future digital ships that surpasses existing technology. We believe that our own digital twin technology will contribute to the global decarbonization effort as well as the realization of autonomous ships. In addition, our cooperation with Lloyd’s Register will reduce the time and cost to provide this high-tech ship to customers,” said Dong Jin Lee, VP of HHI.