Download PDF version

ClassNK granted the Approval in Principle (AiP) for a fully autonomous ship framework (development code “APExS-auto”) jointly developed by Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), MTI Co., Ltd. (MTI), and Japan Marine Science Inc.

Autonomous concept

“APExS-auto” is a framework of the concept for realising a fully autonomous ship by automating a series of processes required for ship operation, including information gathering, analysis, planning, approval, and execution.

It has been adopted in the fully autonomous ship demonstration conducted by the Designing the Future of Full Autonomous Ship (DFFAS) Consortium, which is participating in the “Joint Technological Development Programme for the Demonstration of Fully Autonomous Ships” under the fully autonomous ship project “MEGURI2040” administered by the Nippon Foundation.

Development of ship operation technologies

ClassNK issued the AiP for a crewed autonomous ship framework developed by NYK and MTI

ClassNK has been involved in various demonstration projects to support the development and implementation of automated and autonomous ship operation technologies from a safety perspective and has worked to establish the necessary safety standards.

In 2020, ClassNK issued the AiP for a crewed autonomous ship framework (development code “APExS”) developed by NYK and MTI.

Requirement-based safety review

For the concept design of “APExS-auto”, ClassNK has also conducted its safety review based on the requirements of the society’s “Guidelines for Automated/Autonomous Operation of ships”. Having confirmed its compliance with the requirements, including clarification of basic elements comprising the concept of the system, risk assessments, and backup systems, ClassNK issued the AiP.

In collaboration with partners, ClassNK will continue to ensure the environment for applying automated and autonomous ship operation technologies by providing standards and technical verifications for advanced initiatives.

Download PDF version Download PDF version

In case you missed it

Transforming maritime operations with augmented reality
Transforming maritime operations with augmented reality

Augmented reality (AR) is making waves across various industries, and maritime is no exception. For maritime professionals, AR offers practical, real-time solutions that enhance sa...

NAPA Logbook enhances data collection for Anthony Veder
NAPA Logbook enhances data collection for Anthony Veder

Anthony Veder, a gas shipping company, has strengthened its partnership with NAPA, a global provider of maritime software and data services, to expand the use of electronic logbook...

Sustainable marine coating solutions from PPG
Sustainable marine coating solutions from PPG

PPG has announced its 50th order for the electrostatic application of marine fouling control coatings. The project will be carried out on the VLCC SIDR, a 336-metre oil tanker ope...

vfd