“With HIL we can check the performance before manufacturing. We have this capability in house and we work with suppliers and contractors on overcoming some complex challenges. HIL represents a big step forward towards a sustainable solution.”
Hetzelfde kan gezegd worden van de Hardware in the Loop (HIL) technologie, die ook in de vliegtuigindustrie wordt toegepast.
Met HIL kunnen scheepscomponenten in de ontwerpfase worden afgezet tegen realistische simulaties van de belastingen en spanningen waar zij in de werkelijkheid aan blootgesteld zouden worden. Dit heeft talrijke voordelen, inclusief de verkorte bouwtijd, verbeterde operationele prestaties en uiteindelijk aanzienlijk lagere costs of ownership.
“Met HIL kunnen we vóór de bouw de prestaties controleren. We hebben deze vaardigheid in huis en werken zo met leveranciers en onderaannemers samen om allerlei complexe uitdagingen te overwinnen. HIL vormt een grote stap vooruit naar duurzame oplossingen.”
A stepping stone to a new age
Full sustainability is offered by the all-electric solution. This, states Henk, is the future. And Damen is already there.
“We have developed an all-electric sightseeing boat for the picturesque canals of Amsterdam – though, naturally, the principle could be applied to other locations as well.”
In typical Damen fashion, Damen’s solution is standard, but flexible.
“We have developed a technical platform to be used for multiple solutions on the topside – open-top, classic and modern, giving clients flexibility to have their custom requirements on a standard, proven vessel. In fact, we encourage clients to come to us with their own designs. This way we know we are producing something aligned with market needs.”
The idea is to cater to the growing number of tourists that visit the city each year, at the same time improving on environmental performance via reduced sound and emissions.
“This is a stepping stone into a new age of emission free, silent, comfortable means of transportation. No rattling, no black smoke – it will be easier to listen to the commentary for one thing!”
Damen is also working on a full maintenance package for this type of vessel once it is operational.
“This is very much in keeping with the Damen philosophy. As a family company, Damen takes a long-term view in everything it does – including our relationships with our customers. With that in mind, we don’t like to just deliver a vessel, we aim to provide support for our clients into the future. Which is exactly why sustainability is of such great importance to us.”
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Damen Passenger Car Ferries
Damen Research & Development
Damen Electric Vessels
Public Transport
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