Students and Researchers Test Algorithms on Industrial DP System
Students and researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) were given the opportunity to test their own Dynamic Positioning (DP) algorithms in a full-scale setting. The trials took place in the Trondheimsfjord aboard the R/V Gunnerus, the NTNU-owned research and education vessel.
Called The AMOS DP Research Cruise 2016, PhD students and researchers were given access to the vessel’s K-Pos system for a total of six days, allowing them to fully understand how their algorithm research and development translates to real-life operations at sea. It is believed that this is the first time that access to an industrial DP system platform has been provided for research and educational purposes, which was possible due to Kongsberg Maritime’s donation of the K-Pos system in 2015 and on-going support of the R/V Gunnerus.
“This DP test campaign is unique. For the first time our PhD students have been given the opportunity to test their own work in real conditions,” said Roger Skjetne, Professor at NTNU’s Department of Marine Technology and cruise leader. “While our simulators provide a deep insight into how different DP control algorithms will affect a DP vessel dynamically, to actually have access to a vessel with an industrial-level DP system allows the PhD students and researchers at NTNU AMOS to truly understand the effects and relevance that their work has on the complete DP system and operation.”
In operation for NTNU since 2006, the R/V Gunnerus is equipped with the latest technology for a variety of research activities within biology, technology, geology, archaeology, oceanography and fisheries. The vessel is arranged with a wet lab, dry lab and a computer lab in addition to a large aft deck, and is a key asset in research activities for the university. In addition to research projects, the ship is used for educational purposes and is an important platform for training courses at all levels and disciplines. The R/V Gunnerus is also regularly used as a highly efficient test-bed for technology developed by Kongsberg Maritime.
“It’s vital that industry works with the academic sector to enthuse and inform a new generation of engineers who will become the driving force behind new maritime technology revolutions,” said Arne Rinnan, Vice President Technology of Kongsberg Group.