Avikus, developer of autonomous navigation technology, and classification society DNV are to collaborate on the development and approval of autonomous vessel systems.
The collaboration is a step forward as Avikus progresses through DNV’s System Qualification process for its autonomous navigation system, HiNAS Control, under DNV-CG-0264 and relevant international standards.
The system is currently undergoing evaluation to ensure it meets DNV’s rules, including class guidelines and the forthcoming class notations.
The goal is to achieve the world’s first Type Approval of its kind by the end of 2024.
“We are excited to be working towards the first Type Approval for autonomous navigation solutions under DNV’s regulations,” said Dohyeong Lim, Avikus CEO.
“As this is a world-first initiative, we are navigating unexpected challenges, but our close collaboration is establishing verification standards and methodologies.
“This milestone is significant for both DNV, which is at the forefront of setting international standards for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), and Avikus, which is advancing and commercialising autonomous navigation technology.”
It is important to further develop, test and explore digitalisation and autonomy.
Jarle Coll Blomhoff, head of Digital Ship Systems, DNV
And he explained that Avikus will continue to support DNV’s efforts and collaborate across various areas to further develop and approve this technology.
The HiNAS Control system is a standard specification for all HD Hyundai new builds, and so far, the order book has more than 170 sets.
The system integrates artificial intelligence (AI) and sensor fusion to merge data from various navigation tools and augmented reality (AR) to assist navigators.
The technology enables ships to autonomously avoid collisions while maintaining optimal routes and speeds.
It is hoped the collaboration will pave the way for broader adoption of autonomous systems in the maritime industry.
“DNV is proud to present this statement in recognition of Avikus,” said Jarle Coll Blomhoff, head of Digital Ship Systems at DNV.
“It is important to further develop, test and explore digitalisation and autonomy, and we are happy that Avikus has chosen DNV as the classification partner for this innovative project.”
