MAN Energy Solutions has introduced a new digital platform to collect and process sensor data from engines, turbines and compressors in real-time, using intelligent analysis tools for monitoring, evaluation and forecasting of the performance of the onboard machinery.
The new MAN CEON system integrates data and information from both the MAN machinery as well as the operational environment where it is located, to create a detailed picture of the equipment’s operation.
“MAN CEON is the new backbone of our developing digital-service business,” said Per Hansson, Head of Digital and Strategy at MAN Energy Solutions.
“All of our machines, whether engines or turbomachinery, are equipped with hundreds of sensors that transmit data constantly. MAN CEON enables the efficient collection, storage and evaluation of these data volumes.”
The platform is designed to be scalable, with the ability to monitor several thousand customer installations in parallel, using data-processing capacity which MAN says compares favourably with that of many major social-media platforms.
Monitoring is performed down to the level of small subcomponents, creating a data profile similar to those used for ‘digital twin’ systems.
“To do this, we employ state-of-the-art, Cloud-based technology and algorithms that automatically identify and report problems. And of course the platform meets the requirements for end-to-end security,” Mr Hansson added.
“Digitalisation is often reduced to a purely technical level. In fact, it is above all a cultural issue, a mindset. Thinking digitally means being able to quickly adapt your own business model to make use of new technologies and developments.”
“We will continue to grow. Digital services, the analysis of machine data and the switch to a platform economy are key development drivers, and we are the pacemakers.”
After connecting their equipment to MAN CEON users can access the platform via a web application on a PC or mobile device. Encrypted data transmission and a multi-level authorisation procedure are employed during login to maintain data security.
The operating data from all systems and ships networked via CEON can be transmitted to MAN service centres in real time, to allow MAN to pro-actively support customers with problem solving and maintenance. The system also includes in-built communication functions to enable video and audio live-chats.
