DNV has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with HD Hyundai Mipo (HMD) and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) to develop standards for testing electric-powered vessels through the use of digital twin-based criteria and procedures.
Enhancing ship efficiency
This collaborative project aims to resolve issues related to the integration of highly complex vessel systems for electric propulsion. Using hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing via digital twins of the different systems enables integration tests to be performed earlier in the process and on a much broader and deeper level.
DNV, HMD and KSOE are working on the verification of the digital assets to ensure confidence in the accuracy of the tests. The partners will facilitate the integration process utilizing DNV-verified digital assets. Where systems from multiple suppliers are tested together, having the same requirements and HIL test procedures will ensure the reliability of the testing.
The project will also focus on maintaining the digital assets throughout a vessel’s lifecycle to maximize their value over the long-term. With verified assets, component models could also be used in a plug-and-play manner as different systems are introduced into the simulation space or updated over time.
This initiative sets out to build a foundation for leveraging class-verified digital assets to support more comprehensive and earlier HIL testing. It aligns with DNV’s data-driven verification (DDV) notation, which has been developed to ensure reliable performance of complex systems.
Ensuring safe operations
Kitae Kim, head of quality management at HD Hyundai Mipo, said, “Through this technical collaboration we aim to establish clear and practical digital twin-based testing procedures and standards. These can foster broader industry participation and ensure the reliability of results. In doing so, we hope to safeguard the performance and safety of ship systems and lead in building a digital twin ecosystem for the shipbuilding industry.”
Byoung Hun Kwon, head of the electrification center/digital technology research lab at HD KSOE, added, “We have proactively developed and implemented digital twin technology, including HIL, to safeguard the performance and quality of vessels, achieving world-class advancements in virtual commissioning technology. This collaboration marks a pivotal milestone, uniting HD Hyundai Mipo, HD KSOE and DNV to drive digital innovation in the shipbuilding and marine industry.”
Andreas Kristoffersen, head of the Approval Centre Korea and DNV Maritime, concluded, “This MoU highlights HMD, KSOE and DNV’s commitment to driving digitalization in the maritime industry. By adopting digital twin-based testing for complex systems, we are working together to shape the future of maritime operations and set new industry standards for safety and performance.”
In related news, DNV recently found that a total of 515 alternative-fuelled vessels were ordered in 2024, representing a 38% year-on-year increase compared to 2023. Click here to read the full story.