MOL introduces remote way of applying ship operation data
The Japan-based shipping company MOL has released the “fleet viewer” that forms part of the carrier's focus project to enhance the collection and application of ship operation data.
Ensuring safe vessel operation, and in turn safeguarding the transport of people and cargo is the foundation of the ocean shipping industry. For the most part, however, maintaining safety and addressing problems onboard previously relied on the skills and experience of seafarers on the front lines, because ships travel such great distances.
While seafarers could maintain radio or telephone contact with shoreside personnel, physical distance and telecommunications limitations meant they could not be “watched” from shore.
The fleet viewer is designed to prevent problems, and provides the option of switching to “treatment” should a failure occur. In addition, it can share know-how between the crew members onboard while under way, and with ship management superintendents on land. (kd)