Dutch gas and LNG carrier operator Anthony Veder and classification society Bureau Veritas have completed a pilot for “live remote class surveys” using a wearable device and augmented reality technology.
The companies said in a statement that success of this pilot opens up the way for fully remote class surveys and the duo has the ambition to further roll out this service in the following months.
This way of performing a survey, where the surveyor does not have to travel towards a vessel, not only improves the efficiency of surveys, but also provides a good solution in times when it is difficult to travel towards vessels such as during the current COVID-19 crisis.
Bureau Veritas and Anthony Veder concluded that this form of live, remote surveys are able to reach the same quality level as traditional onboard surveys but are much more efficient.
In addition, Anthony Veder says that this technology will also be used for remote assistance, troubleshooting and providing support to vessels in remote areas.
During the pilot, a scenario including three conditions of class was executed onboard one of Anthony Veder’s vessels.
The pilot took place on the bridge, cargo control room, engine control room and engine room.
The pilot was executed using a wearable augmented reality device enabling a live video and audio connection with the Anthony Veder office in Rotterdam and Bureau Veritas office in Paris.
A remote class surveyor guided the crew onboard through the different class items using the live connection and evidence was gathered by taking pictures and recordings using the wearable device, the statement said.