Kongsberg Digital has announced the launch of cloud-based simulation services for maritime training and research, allowing users at different locations to collect, simulate and share data.
The company says that the technology is already in use by several projects focused on developing digital twins and autonomous vessels, and will be extended to support maritime education and training with the help of a recent funding award of NOK 24 million (approx. $2.5 million) from Innovation Norway.
The new system combines Kongsberg’s simulation technology with Microsoft’s Azure infrastructure and will provide the foundation for cloud-based navigation-related simulation training based on the IMO’s International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
This will provide countries or facilities that do not normally have the resources to invest in expensive simulator equipment with the ability to carry out online learning according to STCW requirements, and to acquire key basic skills such as the use of radar, navigation and manoeuvring.
Kongsberg says that the cloud simulator could also be used to assist in crisis management and other types of advanced training, and will accommodate requirements for post-qualification education of navigators and certificate renewals.
“Digitalisation and the use of Big Data will play an increasingly major part in improving safety, efficiency and, not least, in contributing to more sustainable maritime operations,” said Hege Skryseth, President, Kongsberg Digital.
“Kongsberg Digital is intensifying its commitment to these goals and is now establishing a new business domain – Digital Ocean – to deliver value-generating digital solutions in close cooperation with our industry partners.”
“This project to develop cloud-based training technology is one of many initiatives in which we will participate going forward. By combining our unique domain expertise in digital solutions with our broad experience in developing advanced simulation technology, Kongsberg Digital is in a strong position to raise the bar for quality training in the maritime industry.”
Researchers at the University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) have also taken part in the development project, and will contribute to developing the professional curriculum and in research activities to optimise the educational aspects of the cloud-based training system.
