Platform Automation

Platform automation

Incorporated within IHC Merwede, with its versatile capabilities for the supply of innovative vessels, advanced equipment and life-cycle support, IHC D&A excels
in the integration of whatever systems a vessel can carry, for example, navigation functions, energy management, propulsion control and lighting.

Integration can be supported by complete electrical installations, and is mainly provided in three product lines:

alarm monitoring systems (AMS) with principal design appraisal of
classification societies
vessel management systems (VMS) for the integration of all platform
functions, including PMS
condition monitoring systems (CMS) for the support of maintenance
and logistic decisions.

Highly qualitative engineering

Modern and highly qualitative engineering and document-driven design and production includes every imaginable design technology, for example, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) studies, failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) and modelling technologies - and attention to detail. Elaborate System Architecture Diagrams (SAD) provide clear system and system interfacing understanding from the early stages of projects to all disciplines involved.

Reliability

For all system integration, IHC D&A relies on readily available and proven industrial hardware and software solutions, not only for machines, drives and DP systems, but also for total platform automation, vessel management and functional automation. The benefits are:

components and servicing facilities available worldwide
marinised and rugged HMI hardware for longer lifetimes
both customised and standard solutions
adaptation to operational requirements and restraints
optimal information presentation.

Versatility

IHC D&A outshines the integration of all communication networks, for example, Ethernet, field or CAN busses. They may be copper or fibre optic-based.

Signals can be transferred by wire or wireless, on board and to shore via satellites and portals. This allows the wholesale application of distributed I/O of any make with subsequent drastic reductions in cable cost and sensitivity for outside EMC influences.

Another area of excellence is the provision of clear system architecture diagrams (SAD), documentation, manuals and training facilities, which enable operators to feel at ease with the vessel’s systems from day one.

Model- and simulator-supported factory acceptance tests (FAT) give customers a good impression on actual behaviour on board, long before the equipment is actually installed. These FATs can also be used for preliminary training.