An unnammed offshore asset is remotely controlled from Fugro’s operations centre in Aberdeen (source: Fugro)
Researchers in Norway have expanded an open interface platform to enable maritime and offshore assets to be operated remotelty
Fugro is working with the Ocean Industries Concept Lab (OICL) at Oslo School of Architecture and Design, Norway, to harmonise maritime design and user interfaces for performing remote operations from shore.
They are designing and developing the digital innovations leading to next-generation workplaces for safe remote operations and enhanced user training. Simplified, standardised control interfaces will remove the potential for error and enable operators to successfully operate offshore and maritime assets from shore centres, such as Fugro’s in Aberdeen, Scotland.
Fugro and OICL have been exploring the application of the open-source OpenBridge user interface and design system to produce available solutions at sea and on land.
Remote operations can bring important new efficiencies to the maritime industry and open new applications in offshore industries, but requires the integration of multiple systems from different suppliers, which could be very complex to use.
With the expanding pool of assets being used from Fugro’s remote operations centres, this standardised interface will ensure consistency and promote safe and efficient operations.
“As Fugro continues to deliver innovative solutions, ensuring a common control interface promotes multi-asset operations,” said Fugro director of innovation in Europe, Peter Looijen.
“Through our work with OICL, we have improved business efficiencies and witnessed the positive impact of next-generation user interface integration.”
OICL professor Kjetil Nordby expects more to come from the partnership. “The collaboration with Fugro has allowed us to accelerate the expansion of the OpenBridge platform to new maritime applications,” he said.
“In addition, we have a strategy of supporting all ocean industries workplaces at sea and on land, and a direct collaboration with industry leaders such as Fugro helps us accelerate OpenBridge growth.”
