IoT for the Seas - Jon Helge Ulstein (Wilhelmsen)

Summary

This video introduces Laura IoT, a leading platform in the maritime industry that leverages IoT technology to optimize ship operations and reduce inefficiencies. With over half the merchant fleet supported, the platform uses wireless sensors for real-time data collection, ensuring efficient route planning, equipment maintenance, and reduced CO2 emissions. The IoT for the Seas platform integrates various technologies, including drones and autonomous ships, while focusing on zero-touch deployment for cost-effective solutions. It also features partnerships with companies like Wikit and Cost Mold for condition monitoring and data analysis, aiming to revolutionize maritime logistics and operations.

Takeaways

• 😀 The IoT of the Seas platform by Wilhelmsson supports one of the largest maritime networks globally, supplying more than half of the merchant fleet.
• 😀 The platform integrates innovative technologies such as LoRaWAN, 3D printing, drones, smart ropes, and autonomous ships for the maritime industry.
• 😀 The maritime industry operates 78,000 merchant vessels at any given time, and small efficiency improvements can drastically reduce CO2 emissions, operational costs, and delivery times.
• 😀 Data plays a crucial role in identifying inefficiencies, including equipment condition, crew safety, in-transit vehicles, and onshore assets.
• 😀 Wireless sensor networks are essential for maritime data collection, as wiring is often impractical due to moving assets or high costs.
• 😀 Wilhelmsson's IoT for the Seas platform overcomes challenges in wireless data collection by using advanced radio frequency technologies suited for harsh maritime environments.
• 😀 The platform offers open standards, enabling suppliers to develop relevant sensors and solutions for the maritime industry.
• 😀 IoT for the Seas supports a variety of applications like condition monitoring sensors, load trailer tracking, smart layout services for ships at anchor, and utility monitoring installations.
• 😀 The platform operates on a zero-touch deployment model, allowing for easy onboarding of sensors and equipment without requiring extensive on-site personnel.
• 😀 The IoT for the Seas platform can operate standalone or integrate with third-party applications and supports hybrid LoRa installations for local data buffering and additional sensing capabilities on ships.
• 😀 The platform's use of QR codes and self-service integration allows for cost-efficient and flexible solutions, ensuring minimal on-site intervention for deployment.

Q & A

What is the 'IoT for the Seas' platform?

The 'IoT for the Seas' platform is a maritime-focused solution developed by Wilhelmsson, designed to provide sensors, connectivity, and data handling to meet the needs of the maritime industry. It integrates various technologies and applications, aiming to improve efficiency in shipping, maintenance, and goods management while reducing CO2 emissions and operational costs.

How does the 'IoT for the Seas' platform support maritime operations?

The platform supports maritime operations by integrating wireless sensor technologies for collecting data on equipment conditions, crew safety, vehicle movement, and location of assets. This data helps in optimizing routes, planning maintenance, and improving goods management in the maritime supply chain.

What challenges does wireless data collection face in maritime environments?

Wireless data collection faces challenges in maritime environments due to the harsh conditions that can interfere with many radio frequency technologies. This includes factors such as saltwater, high humidity, and interference from other maritime systems.

What makes 'IoT for the Seas' different from other wireless solutions in maritime?

The 'IoT for the Seas' platform is unique because it uses the latest radio frequency technologies to overcome the challenges of maritime environments. It also uses open standards, making it easier for suppliers to develop relevant sensors and solutions for the maritime industry.

What role does Lorawan play in the digital strategy of 'IoT for the Seas'?

Lorawan is planned to be integrated into the future digital strategy of 'IoT for the Seas' as a key technology. It is being used for its low-power, wide-area networking capabilities, which are ideal for remote maritime environments, enabling efficient and cost-effective data transmission.

Can you provide an example of a project that uses the 'IoT for the Seas' platform?

One example is a project with Norse Group, where the platform is used to track and trace load trailers. The system uses geofencing, so when a device moves to a new location, the system updates the device's location and description, making it easier to track assets without needing to manually search maps.

What are some of the sensor applications in the 'IoT for the Seas' platform?

The platform supports various sensor applications, including monitoring ship conditions at anchor, tracking utility installations (e.g., temperature, humidity), and ensuring onboard safety and access control. Sensors also help track equipment performance, preventing downtime and improving operational efficiency.

How does zero-touch deployment work in the 'IoT for the Seas' platform?

Zero-touch deployment allows maritime operations to set up the platform without requiring personnel to board ships or visit remote sites. This is achieved using devices like QR codes to enable simple onboarding and integration, reducing the need for manual labor and cutting costs.

What is the role of third-party software in the 'IoT for the Seas' platform?

The platform is flexible and can integrate with third-party software. It allows users to either use Wilhelmsson's own applications or integrate with their existing systems, providing a customizable solution for different maritime operations and customer needs.

How does the hybrid LoRa installation contribute to the platform's effectiveness?

In the hybrid LoRa installation, the LoRa stack is installed on an edge computer aboard ships. This setup allows for local data buffering or real-time processing, ensuring that critical data can be accessed and acted upon quickly, even when the ship is in remote locations with limited connectivity.