We are proud to announce that Furuno has achieved the world's first successful remote annual performance test (“APT”) of the voyage data recorder (“VDR”) for a ship under the ClassNK, using our remote monitoring & troubleshooting platform HermAce.
HermAce was previously approved as an alternative to VDR APT for Marshall Islands, Panama and Liberia-flagged vessels under the ClassNK, and can be used for remote APT. This time, we have successfully conducted the VDR APT remotely for the 107,450-ton Panama-flagged bulk carrier, “SOUTHERN CROSS”. The outcome of this operation has increased our anticipation for the widespread adoption of digital technologies.
About Furuno’s HermAce
HermAce uses a Digital Twin (a virtual replica) of bridge equipment based on data streamed directly from the vessel that offers live identification and diagnosis of problems. By using HermAce, it is possible to obtain in real-time all the detailed information remotely. Potential failures can be detected and notified immediately, pursuing the idea of preventive and proactive maintenance for the safety and peace of mind of the navigation.
For more details about HermAce:
https://www.furuno.com/en/merchant/hermace/
About remote VDR APT
Each year a VDR requires an APT by a qualified engineer, who must visit the vessel to check the operation and record of voyage information. However, for vessels equipped with HermAce, VDR data can be remotely checked online in the office to ensure it is correctly recorded. Its remote diagnosis using real-time and historical data, preparation such as acquisition, conversion, and recording of data necessary for periodic inspections, and confirmation by engineers based on logs and other evidence, enables to conduct the performance testing equivalent to the conventional method, even in remote locations. Prearrangements before APT and the APT itself can be conducted in regions or at times where it is difficult for engineers to visit the ship.
Related Links:
Announced on February 14, 2024 (Furuno) Furuno has received approval from LiMA to use HermAce as a tool for remote VDR APT
https://www.furuno.co.jp/en/news/general/general_category.html?itemid=1451&dispmid=961
Announced on June 29, 2023 (Furuno) Furuno has received approval from AMP to use HermAce as a tool for remote VDR APT
https://www.furuno.co.jp/en/news/general/general_category.html?itemid=1344&dispmid=961
Announced on March 17, 2023 (ClassNK)：ClassNK grants Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions to HermAce developed by FURUNO
https://www.classnk.or.jp/hp/en/hp_news.aspx?id=9423&type=press_release&layout=1