In a major move toward next-generation shipbuilding, class society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and shipbuilding major HD Hyundai Samho have inked a memorandum of understanding for the technical collaboration for an artificial intelligence (AI)-based smart shipyard.
As disclosed, the agreement sets up a cooperative framework for both parties to leverage smart technologies like AI, automation and robotics to identify opportunities for process improvement at the HD Hyundai Samho shipyard.
ABS says it will utilize its established guide for smart technologies for shipyards in the review process.
“Advanced technologies are transforming shipyard operations and opening new avenues for progress. Intelligent systems show promise for elevating health, safety and quality standards, driving efficiency and innovation in contemporary shipbuilding,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS chairman and CEO.
Hwan-Gyu Kim, HSHI senior executive vice president and chief operating officer, noted: “HD Hyundai Samho is standing at the center of the digital transformation crossroad. We should move forward from shipbuilding automation and digitalization to AI and data-driven decision-making for survival.”
In parallel with this initiative, ABS has granted approval in principle to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for a concept of a floating small modular reactor (SMR)-powered power module.
The design is intended to generate electricity offshore and near shore, supporting port facilities and onshore communities.
The approval in principle is the second for a floating nuclear power barge design from HD KSOE and is the latest step in a long running collaboration with ABS on nuclear technologies, including another power barge design and a 15k teu nuclear propelled containership.
