ABS has awarded approval in principle to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for a new wireless fire and gas detection system that uses a vessel’s metal structure for power and signal transmission.
Unlike conventional systems that rely on cabling, SHI’s design converts signals from detectors into magnetic waves transmitted via the ship’s metal surface, reducing wiring and installation complexity.
The approach is also intended to minimise issues such as signal shadowing, interference and reflection found in traditional air-based wireless systems.
“This is a unique approach from SHI to provide a wireless detection system that promises to overcome common challenges like shadowing, signal interference, absorption and reflection, found in traditional wireless systems that rely on air as the transmission medium,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer.
“In addition to reduced cabling, it should also offer the industry more flexibility and scalability with these critical safety systems.”
SHI says that it plans to expand the use of surface wave technology to other onboard safety and operational systems.
