Advancing the Digital Twin Initiative: Building on Successful Pilot Outcomes

[By: NAPA]

Today, ClassNK and NAPA, along with various partners, proudly announced the prosperous conclusion of Phase 3 pilot trials for the innovative Digital Twin Project.

The outcomes from these trials have confirmed that the platform’s primary business scenarios are not only viable but also beneficial. This initiative aims to foster collaboration among shipowners, builders, and other maritime players through shared digital twins.

The pilot highlighted important advantages in operational efficiency and cost savings while pinpointing areas needing enhancement—like data management practices, security protocols, contract clarity, and a better understanding of platform fees and value assessments.

this Digital Twin Project is designed to establish a secure data-sharing environment between shipyards and owners. Its goal? To leverage digital twins throughout a vessel’s lifecycle for improved efficiency and safety.By sharing 3D models created during design in a controlled digital space, stakeholders can overcome challenges related to sensitive design facts.

Eliminating these data barriers allows shipyards to utilize operational insights from existing ships to refine future designs. Additionally, it aids shipowners in evaluating their fleets’ environmental impact while exploring potential emissions reductions alongside cost efficiencies. The modeling aspect will offer valuable forecasts on how new technologies—like weather routing systems or alternative propulsion methods—could influence safety measures, operations, and cargo capacity on board vessels. It will also help verify the effectiveness of newly installed systems post-deployment.

This collaborative effort includes major players such as nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK),MTI Co., Ltd., Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (“K” LINE), Marubeni Corporation along with its subsidiary MMSL japan Ltd., Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Japan Marine United Corporation, Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding Co., Sumitomo Heavy Industries Marine & Engineering Co., Kyokuyo Shipyard Corporation, Usuki Shipyard Co.,ClassNK and NAPA.