The world's first autonomous robot exploration vessels for commercial purposes will feature Danfoss Editron's hybrid propulsion, power plant, control and energy management systems, as well as Volvo Penta's D8 MH variable speed engines.
Once handed over to Ocean Infinity in 2021, a subsea technology and data company, by the shipbuilders from Grovfjord Mek. Verksted (GMV), the boats will operate without a nearby host vessel - they will be controlled via satellites from onshore facilities in Texas and Southampton - thus emitting up to 90% less CO2 emissions compared to conventional oceanographic survey methods, saving approximately 31kt of CO2 annually.
The autonomous vessels will be capable of launching remotely operated underwater vehicles to a maximum depth of 6,000 m that will carry out surveys on pipeline routes or acquire seismic data.
"It is actually the first time that a commercial autonomous fleet in being developed, rather than just being a prototype. We are very proud to have been chosen by GMV as their technology partners for this groundbreaking project. We're also excited to continue our cooperation with GMV on the Armada project. It is one of the largest aluminium hull vessel builders in the world and has a strong history of delivering high-quality boats," Erno Tenhunen, Marine Director, Danfoss Editron.
Johan Inden, Volvo Penta's head of the marine segment, added, "Volvo Penta is delighted to be part of this groundbreaking project in cooperation with Danfoss Editron. Together, we will deliver an optimized power solution to the autonomous Armada fleet, designed for ultimate performance while reducing the environmental footprint."
Photo: Grovfjord Mek. Verksted