- SHI has collaborated with global shipping company EVERGREEN to develop and implement VR solutions for training at EVERGREEN Seafarer Training Center (ESTC), improving operational stability while reducing costs and risks.

Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) announced on the 11th that it has collaborated with global shipping company EVERGREEN to develop and install `Virtual Reality (VR) Solutions` at EVERGREEN Seafarer Training Center (ESTC) to assist seafarers in learning how to operate eco-friendly equipment used on 16,500TEU container ships owned by EVERGREEN.

SHI`s VR solutions are designed to train seafarers who operate methanol dual-fuel propulsion vessels within a virtual space to help them learn fully about the equipment prior to operating the vessel in real life.

It has become imperative for shipping companies to implement training programs for seafarers to operate new equipment due to stringent environmental regulations and a surge in eco-friendly shipbuilding orders.

Against this backdrop, Samsung Heavy Industries has developed a program that facilitates direct inspections of critical areas, such as engine rooms and bunkering stations, in virtual spaces and provided it to the ship owner. This is achieved through VR solutions implemented using 3D design data, eliminating the need to board ships physically.

With VR solutions, seafarers can efficiently operate equipment with more complex systems than those found on conventional diesel engine ships. Additionally, these solutions offer repetitive training for emergency situations, such as fuel leaks or fire onboard ships. They are also anticipated to mitigate operational risks and reduce maintenance costs associated with malfunctions or misuse of critical equipment.

“VR solutions that are tailored to customer needs will play a crucial role in enhancing the operational stability of eco-friendly ships,” said Dong-yeon Lee, Vice President and Director of SHI’s Ship & Offshore Research Institute. “Samsung Heavy Industries will develop a range of customized solutions by leveraging our technical expertise in VR.”