2nd CALL
GreenOffshoreTech 3-Phase Accelerator Programme (CALL#2):
• PHASE 1, IDEA MATURATION: TOP 46 ranked SMEs projects have received a
lump sum of €5,000 per project for developing a sound Initial Business Plan.
• PHASE 2, IDEA VALIDATION: TOP 28 ranked SMEs projects of PHASE 1 will
received in addition a lump sum of €45,000 per project for developing a
Prototype to validate the project idea. (ongoing, will be closed end of May’24)
• PHASE 3: GROWTH: BEST 12 SMEs projects of TOP 28 winner projects of
PHASE 2 will receive in addition a lump sum of €10,000 per project for activities
related to Promotion and Exploitation of project results.
#MeetTheWinners:
Get to know our winner SMEs projects from the 2nd Call!
The duration of the SME innovation project is 14 months from 01/06/2023
Awarded on the 10th of May 2023
3DOCK: EFFICIENT AND SUSTAINABLE WATERBORNE TRANSPORT WITH AGILE ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SUPPLY SERVICES AND DIGITAL WAREHOUSE
Promoter: 3Dock UG (haftungsbeschränkt)
Country: Germany
The maritime industry is facing significant challenges. The global fleet, with an average age of 21.8 years, is aging, and a very dynamic supplier market amplifies early obsolescence of marine components.
The project, led by 3Dock, aims to address these challenges by providing an agile digital manufacturing service based in additive manufacturing. A specialized cloud manufacturing platform that connects businesses in the maritime industry with additive manufacturing providers will be developed. The platform will offer a range of services, including design consultation, reverse engineering, and production runs for spare parts, custom parts, and components. By doing that, 3Dock will streamline the procurement process and make it easier for maritime companies to access the benefits of 3D printing.
The project has several objectives, including the development of a viable internet-based business model, identifying early adopters and pilot projects, developing a digital warehouse in a technically and financially viable way, and developing a quality system that allows 3Dock to be certified by the classification society and accepted by the industry. The expected outcome of the project is to significantly reduce lead times, eliminate the need for large inventories, and reduce waste by producing only the parts that are needed. The platform will increase sustainability and reduce operating costs for maritime companies. The use of 3D printing technology will also extend the lifetime of parts and systems. The cross-sectoral aspect of the project is that it brings together the maritime industry and the additive manufacturing industry, leveraging the benefits of 3D printing technology to solve the challenges faced by the maritime industry. The project also has potential implications for other industries that face similar challenges related to the obsolescence of components and the need for customized and on-demand production. 3Dock aspires to permeate all marine and offshore markets, including offshore wind and other marine renewable energies, offshore and marine aquaculture or offshore oil & gas.
YACHT MONITOR AND ENERGY OPTIMIZER
Promoter: 42-TRADE
Country: Poland
The aim of the “Yacht Monitor and Energy Optimizer” Project is to provide a modern and fully integrated system for extended electricity management on a vessel.
The project involves the creation of a system consisting of three functional modules:
➢ Module enabling monitoring the balance of generated and consumed energy in real-time mode,
➢ Energy balance data collection module,
➢ Prediction and optimization module using machine learning mechanisms (decision trees).
The system is part of the modern trend of “yachting smart metering” in the “smart grid” area.
The project is part of the water transport sector. The project is a response to the problem of effective use of the generated electricity in the era of growing requirements related to ecology and environmental protection. The beneficiaries of the developed system will be both individual and institutional shipowners of sea and inland waterway vessels.
The introduced innovation will contribute to a more effective use of energy generation sources, with particular emphasis on ecological methods of its generation (photovoltaics, fuel cells, electrolysis, the use of yacht movement under sail).
An effective drive control system will meet the increasingly stringent EU standards regarding pollutant emissions.
At the same time, it pursues strategic goals at the EU level, i.e.
➢ objectives of the Green Deal – contributing to the protection and restoration of ecosystems and biodiversity of the marine environment,
➢ Blue Economy objectives – contributing to a more sustainable policy in the field of eliminating air pollution and noise emitted by vessels.
MULTIFUNCTIONAL COMPACT WAVE SENSOR SYSTEM
Promoter: AirNow sp. z o.o.
Country: Poland
The project “Multifunctional compact wave sensor system (MCWSS)” is focused on creating a compact, mobile, accessible, low-energy and multifunctional measurement system for the behavior of water waves, using a set of advanced, hermetically sealed MEMS sensors, relays and computation units.
The planned research work will be aimed at creating a set of compact, low-energy and multifunctional sensors for water wave metering in different applications, as well as developing algorithms for extracting the required wave characteristics data. The metering algorithm will optimize the operation of the sensor and minimize energy consumption based on the desired system output.
The project will tackle the issues dedicated towards sustainable offshore development within multiple topics, including: improving offshore wind and wave energy production, reducing the environmental impact of offshore activities, enhancing offshore transportation and logistics, improving offshore safety.
The main functions of the developed sensor system technology are planned to include:
– Inertial MEMS module with built-in Machine Learning core, advanced Digital Functions, Ultra-low power for battery operated IoT,
– ultra low power high performance 3-axis magnetic sensor with user-selectable full scales of ±4, ±8, ±12, ±16 gauss,
₋ triple data acquisition channel (redundancy allowing for the implementation of fault detection algorithms and increasing the measurement frequency) based on the MEMS technology and a magnetic field sensor. Each of the channels will enable the acquisition of acceleration, angular velocities and magnetic field in three axes X, Y, Z. Selection of operating parameters affecting the quality of energy produced in the form of direct current (voltage, current, power),
₋ central computation unit based on a highly energy-efficient STM chip with many sleep mode levels and a favorable computing power to energy consumption (100DMIPS), available RAM memory of 64kB enabling the implementation of basic data processing algorithms,
₋ battery input for the system power supply (dedicated 2032 battery connector) allowing to register a loss of main voltage and send information about a temporary loss (failure, cable damage) on the RS485/CAN distributed interface. Working time on battery backup depends on the implemented battery with a basic option of up to 5 hours of power,
₋ RS and CAN interface based on a +24V “hybrid” signal cable (communication speed up to 100 kbps with a maximum bus length of 200m)
₋ built-in closure and humidity sensor (flooding/cover opening detection).
₋ designed for case with minimum IP67.
The project applies to sustainable offshore energy production, offshore transport efficiency and safety as well as offshore environmental protection. The project is a response to the growing problem of severe weather incidents as well as increasing need for green energy production and increasing needs for safe and efficient waterborne transport.
The Project pursues strategic goals at the EU level, i.e.:
➢ objectives of the Green Deal – contributing to the protection and restoration of ecosystems and biodiversity of the marine environment,
➢ Blue Economy objectives – contributing to a more sustainable policy in the field of eliminating air pollution and noise emitted by vessels.
TOUGH, LONG RANGE DRONES
Promoter: Airspection Limited
Country: United Kingdom
Airspection is developing tough, long-range drones for remote infrastructure inspection. Our aim is to reduce the cost, time taken, and to put less people at risk when it comes to inspecting hard to reach infrastructure. Current inspection drone range means that companies must transport inspection teams to hard to reach, dangerous environments such as offshore wind turbines, oil rigs and remote pipelines. When it comes to powerline inspection, teams have to walk hours to reach pylons and in some cases, they still use helicopters for inspection.
We aim to solve this with tough long-range drones that are long range that fly to the remote infrastructure, have extended hover time to inspect and once completed the drone will then fly back.
The objectives of this project are to;
• Develop a prototype drone that is capable of flying from shore, to an offshore platform, performing an inspection and then returning to shore.
• Validate and expand customer traction through conversations, partnerships and demonstrations with built prototype.
• Generate a clear and succinct business strategy which includes sales strategy, branding, communication, internationalisation, IP protection, investment strategy and financial plans.
The outcome is to be in a position to go for investment to scale the proposition, start paid customer trials and have CAA approval to fly BVLOS.
AUTOMATED ADHESIVE SIMULATION FOR OFFSHORE APPLICATIONS
Promoter: ar engineers GmbH
Country: Germany
In the context of lightweight engineering, adhesive joints gain ever-growing importance when it comes to designing load-bearing parts and structures. While welding and riveting of metallic structures have a long tradition and broad acceptance in the maritime sector, composite and hybrid materials bear an enormous potential for shipyards and manufacturers of offshore equipment and structures to produce lighter and more sustainable vessels, offshore oil & gas platforms, and wind energy plants. Wherever composites and hybrid structures need to be joined, adhesive bonding is a key technology.
“calcbond” is an online engineering platform enabling technicians and engineers to rapidly perform structural design calculations of adhesively bonded joints. Using the power of state-of-the-art analytical and numerical simulation methods, users can quickly analyze pre-defined bonded joint configurations/use cases (e.g. studs/fasteners bonded on metallic or composite plates) under mechanical and thermal loading to evaluate the structural safety of the joint. As opposed to conventional structural engineering software, there is no need for offline installation or extensive training to work with “calcbond”. Users can simply register online, go into a 30-day free trial and then benefit from calcbond’s adhesive joint design functionalities based on a monthly subscription.
While calcbond currently provides a small range of generic pre-defined use cases, the goal of this project is to extend the use case portfolio and implement a range of concrete adhesive bonding use cases specifically relevant to the offshore industry. This can include but is not limited to adhesively bonding loaded structures or mounting the periphery to structural components.
GREENLAND
Promoter: Arctic Coating AS
Country: Norway
Arctic Coating AS initiated the GREENLAND project back in 2021. The project is partly funded by The Research Council of Norway and has SINTEF, Kongsberg Maritime and a confidential industrial partner on board. The background for the project is the shift from mineral based lubricants to environmentally acceptable lubricants in the maritime industry. Currently the lubricants used in the shipping industry and marine applications are either based on mineral oils or synthetic oils. Lubricants based on mineral oils are more widely used by the industry. Mineral oils are detrimental to the environment due to their toxicity, low biodegradability and high bioaccumulation; therefore, their use should be limited in marine applications.
Lubricant leakages and spills from marine vessels have become an environmental issue of great concern over the last decades. Increased awareness of maritime lubricants polluting the oceans has triggered some countries to launch restrictive regulations that ban the use of conventional mineral based products and force the use of Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs). However, the performance of EALs is not good enough compared to mineral based lubricants. There have been extensive reporting on EALs causing serious operational challenges and leading to equipment failures on board ships. The GREENLAND project will contribute to the green shift by developing reliable and innovative EALs for marine applications, and thus removing the operational risk associated with EALs today. Based on this innovation, a new lubricant production site can be established in Norway.
To reach this goal, we will do the following: • Define the end users’ needs from a technological point of view • better understand the main limitations of currently used EALs based on these needs • determine the main properties to be targeted to propose a better lubricant formulation.
This will be tested and validated at lab scale and at industrial scale before being put into production.
GREENLAND will contribute to the green shift and, more specifically, to the following UN Sustainable Goals:
• Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: by developing new EALs.
• Goal 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and, more specifically, target 9.4: by making this industry more sustainable and contributing to a greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies.
• Goal 14 – Life below Water: by preventing and reducing the use of mineral oil based lubricants in maritime applications
AUTOMATED MANUFACTURING OF PRECURSORS FOR INNER REINFORCED HYDROGEN PRESSURE VESSELS
Promoter: BaltiCo GmbH
Country: Germany
The use of hydrogen-based propulsion systems is considered mandatory for the reduction of emissions of environmentally harmful substances in marine shipping industry. To reduce needed space and hence extent the cargo capacity, the hydrogen has to be stored at high pressures up to 700 bar. Suitable pressure vessels are often made of steel or composite materials, which either are heavyweight or cost intensive in production.
In this project an innovative constructive solution for carbon fiber reinforced pressure vessels is developed. The vessel consists of two parts: an inner reinforcement structure that is connected to the endcaps and an outer shell. The shell is made of a cylindric-shaped liner reinforced with wet wound carbon fiber reinforced plastic. In relation to a conventional hydrogen pressure vessel a very low component weight and hence a higher storage density can be achieved.
Conventional carbon fiber reinforced pressure vessels need a complex liner-geometry to enable an efficient and durable design. These liners are often manufactured in a blow molding or rotational molding process. Both processes require a complex mold and expensive machinery, which increases costs especially for small batches of vessels. In contrast to this, the presented manufacturing process does not require a liner that is shaped complexly. The liner elements for the proposed method can be manufactured on a conventional lathe, which proves to be a very cost effective and automatable process.
In previous experiments, there were attempts to fabricate the end caps and the inner reinforcement using a combined wet winding and strand laying process. As there were difficulties regarding long term stability and leakage of some vessels produced that way, an improved process was made up which will be investigated during this project.
The extraordinary scalability of the design enables the development of pressure vessels of various sizes for the equipment of all kinds of ships such as ferries, trawlers and service ships. Due to the high customizability, the technique is highly suitable for the conversion of conventional propulsion systems of older watercraft.
PROCESSING BLACK SOLDIER FLY LARVAE TO INSECT MEAL FOR FISH FEED
Promoter: Biomund
Country: Latvia
The aim of this project is to create an industrial-scale experimental insect processing line that can process up to 200 kg of live Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae per day. The primary objective is to test and enhance the technological aspects of insect meal production, particularly through the development and refinement of the drying process. By doing so, we aim to produce insect meal with a high energy value that can replace traditional additives such as fishmeal and plant-based feeds in fish feed, up to 40%. This solution will be more sustainable, safer, and offer a long-term solution for the offshore aquaculture sector.
The insects used to obtain the insect meal are fed with plant-based residues from the agricultural sector, which allows us to recover proteins and introduce them into a new value chain. Therefore this project involves two sectors: aquaculture and agriculture.
The project objectives are as follows:
1. Define the technical parameters for an experimental technological process for BSF insect processing and design the insect processing line.
2. Conduct a price survey and purchase the necessary materials and equipment.
3. Install connecting equipment parts and commence the technological process. Test its functional operation and optimize the necessary processes to ensure that the insect meal has the highest nutritional value and quality. Conduct at least 10 cycles of insect processing and evaluate the quality of the obtained insect meal in an independent laboratory.
4. Identify the optimal conditions and verify the repeatability of the process.
HYDROACOUSTIC DIGITAL TWIN FOR SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE OFFSHORE INDUSTRIES
Promoter: Blue Ocean Sustainable Solutions LDA
Country: Portugal
The main objective of this project is to further develop the Underwater Acoustic Digital Twin, so-called HydroTWIN and test it in real environment. The HydroTWIN aims to provide real-time information about underwater soundscape, allowing the end-user to access information about detection and tracking of anthropogenic or natural sources of noise, such as dolphins/whales/cetaceans, underwater vehicles, surface ships. The Digital Twin (DT) also allows computes underwater noise levels and sound maps that can be used to manage and mitigate environmental impacts of offshore activities (e.g. oil&gas, offshore wind, aquaculture and shipping).
The expected outcome of HydroTWIN is to contribute for the safety and sustainability of offshore activities by smart monitoring and control of the underwater environment, in particular to:
(i) Ensure a soundscape suitable for the local species: marine animals use sound as the main sense to interact in their environment (e.g. detecting preys, communicate, breeding), it is therefore of major importance for their welfare.
(ii) Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by decreasing ship-based environmental monitoring activities at sea.
(iii) Identify underwater threats early, allowing for mitigation or action measures to be adopted, by detecting events that produce underwater noise (e.g. undetected vessels, high-speed boats, underwater vehicles).
This project entails a holistic system based on acoustics recording, artificial intelligence (AI) for identification, numerical acoustic propagation models and tools, IoT for data streaming and data science visualisation tools; it is therefore an underwater digital twin system.
EMISSION-FREE MICRO CARGO SHIPS
Promoter:CargoKite GmbH
Country: Germany
90% of trade is carried by sea, but the vast majority of cargo ships in use today run on the dirtiest fuel available. This renders the industry responsible for 3% of global CO2 emissions – more than all of Germany combined. At the same time, the shipping industry is not capable of responding to an increasingly dynamic and decentralized economy. CargoKite tackles this problem with the development of an innovative patent-pending, autonomous micro cargo ship that is powered solely by wind. The ship’s main propulsion is an Airborne Wind Energy (AWE) system (“kite”) that operates at an altitude of 100 to 300 m. Thanks to strong and constant high-altitude winds, the ship can operate reliably.
The core of CargoKite’s innovation lies in increasing the kite’s efficiency so drastically that its use is no longer limited to only being an auxiliary propulsion for a conventional ship, but kites can now be used as main propulsion for a newly designed ship. Key to these efficiency gains is a newly developed hull and an active stabilization system. The proprietary, state-of-the-art control software activating the robotics system of the ship will be the foundation for realizing the efficiency gains already proven in simulation. In effect, the solution not only eliminates emissions completely, but also accelerates cargo delivery and enables customized routing thanks to the individualized transport capacity of 16 containers.
In addition, CargoKite is working on an intelligent route planning tool using artificial intelligence to determine the optimal route and accurately predict the estimated time of arrival. Once in operation satellite communication will be essential for a reliable communication and operation of the vessel.
CargoKite plans to enter the intra-European shortsea shipping market with the first vessels in 2027. Goal of this project is to build a concept yacht as a scaled version of the cargo vessel to conduct a public showcase/ pilot project with prospective customers.
CLEAN OCEAN COATINGS - ECOATING
Promoter: Clean Ocean Coatings GmbH
Country: Germany
With the product “Ecoating”, Clean Ocean Coatings is developing a biocide-free, abrasion-resistant alternative to existing environmentally harmful antifouling coatings. Thus, it offers the ship operator a solution for the growing legal pressure to refrain from environmentally harmful substances. In addition, ship operators are increasingly developing an interest in environmentally friendly technologies themselves. “Ecoating” enables the customer to comply with laws more easily or even in the first place.
Does it pay off? “Ecoating” also offers economic advantages by design: it significantly reduces frictional resistance when driving through water and leads to fuel savings of up to six percent and thus to reduced CO2 emissions. The number of layers to be applied is reduced in order to achieve savings in shipyard times. In addition, “Ecoating” will last longer than previous antifouling coatings, which will enable further savings. This makes “ecoating” a highly interesting product for the customer, both ecologically and economically. The pilot project conducted with the support from GreenOffshoreTech will significantly contribute to demonstrate our case and lift us from TRL 6 to TRL 7.
SAFE, FAST & AUTONOMOUS DRONE DELIVERY
Promoter: CONNECT ROBOTICS
Country: Portugal
The project aims on the development of a safe, fast, and autonomous solution, using electric drones, for high-precision deliveries at sea of parts, components and material needs for maintenance and repairs in existing facilities such as boats, platforms, offshore installations, and others. The goal is to prove the effective response via drone, with direct effects on costs, environment, and sustainability, establishing them as a solution of maximum efficiency and feasibility in waterborne transport, solving a lot of the preexisting problems and issues integrated on this sector.
FINANCING ACQUISITION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PROTOTYPE OF THE FLOATING OFFSHORE HYDROGEN GENERATOR
Promoter: CRUSE Offshore GmbH
Country: Germany
Our floating Offshore H2 Generator is decoupled from the land-based power grid and like on a cruise ship, consumes the self-generated electricity on site, mainly through the electrolyzer. The generated green H2 is stored in the “Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier” (LOHC) as a carrier fluid. Similar to FPSO* vessels, this liquid is exchanged monthly with a conventional shuttle tanker and brought to industrial ports which are usually also connected to an inland waterway grid. The LOHC can be stored and transported at sea and on land at ambient pressure and temperature using the existing oil infrastructure. The GW hydrogen farms consist of multiple floating H2 generators, each powered by a wind turbine. The H2 farms are freely scalable and most effective when placed in areas with continuously high wind speed, which in turn ensures a very large increase in production. There, the electrolyzers can produce hydrogen 24/7. To obtain planning and legal certainty, the Offshore H2 Farms are placed in the respective EEZs** of the states and near ports. Our patent-pending development is verified by the Technical University of Hamburg (TUHH) in terms of Offshore technologies & shipbuilding and by the Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) for storing the H2 in the LOHC. Many simulations, wind tunnel, and wave tank tests have already been successfully completed. All installed supplier series components have at least Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 9. CRUSE Offshore GmbH (COG) has completed TRL 4 for the floater and plans to build a 5-MW prototype with the maritimized components, followed by a 15-MW version for the GW Offshore H2 Farms. The techniques have been adopted from the offshore oil industry and provide an opportunity for a smooth transition from fossil to renewable energy using a liquid energy carrier on an industrial scale. COG is planning several GW Offshore H2 Farms at suitable European and international locations.
IMPLEMENTATION OF A CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AN INTEGRATED HYBRID PROPULSION AND POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR VESSELS
Promoter: DYNAMIC VALUE SIMULATIONS
Country: Poland
The project “Implementation of a control system for an integrated hybrid propulsion and power supply system for vessels” is the construction of an innovative complete control system for the propulsion and power supply system for vessels, using a hybrid drive system operating in integrated or individual mode.
In the first place, the planned research work will be aimed at developing algorithms for controlling the operation of the propulsion system. The control algorithm will optimize the operation of the drive and minimize fuel consumption depending on the selected sailing mode. The result of its operation will be more effective use of the potential of the hybrid drive.
The project is part of the water transport sector. The project is a response to the problem related to the effective use of water transport and logistics in the era of growing requirements related to ecology and environmental protection, both in the case of inland waterways and sea transport along the coastline. The beneficiaries of the developed control system may be a wide range of inland and sea vessels. The introduced innovation will contribute to the reduction of exhaust gas and pollutant emissions to the natural environment and will have an positive impact on the reduction of noise emitted during engine operation. An effective drive control system will meet the increasingly stringent EU standards regarding pollutant emissions.
At the same time, it pursues strategic goals at the EU level, i.e.:
➢ objectives of the Green Deal ‐ contributing to the protection and restoration of ecosystems and biodiversity of the marine environment,
➢ Blue Economy objectives ‐ contributing to a more sustainable policy in the field of eliminating air pollution and noise emitted by vessels.
TOOL FOR HYDROGEN STORAGE POTENTIAL ASSESSMENT IN SALT CAVERNS
Promoter: EcoEnergyH2
Country: Poland
Hydrogen technologies are one of the pillars of future energy and transport systems, making a valuable contribution to the energy transition towards zero-emission systems. Their use is related to the growing share of renewable energy sources for producing green hydrogen as an energy carrier. Due to the intermittent nature of power generation from renewable energy sources, it will be necessary to store energy. One of the storage methods is underground storage in salt caverns constructed in salt deposits onshore or offshore. Offshore rock salt deposits could provide underground hydrogen storage possibilities for the created offshore wind farms. There are examples of hydrogen storage in salt caverns in the Gulf of Mexico (USA) and Great Britain for the chemical industry.
When planning underground hydrogen storage in salt caverns, determining the storage potential of a selected rock salt deposit is essential. For this purpose, we propose to develop a tool for assessing the storage potential of green hydrogen in salt deposits. This tool will use public and private spatial metadata, reflecting the exclusion criteria required in the location suitability analysis and storage capacity estimations. In addition to spatial data, the proposed program will also use essential data to determine the storage capacity of the rock salt deposit (depth, thickness, geothermal gradient, lithostatic pressure, cavern design data (cavern shape, cavern spacing, thickness of safety pillars)) and basic physical and chemical parameters of hydrogen affecting the capacity of the designed storage facility.
The developed application will allow, at the investment planning stage, to determine estimates of the future storage capacity within the analyzed deposit and in its selected parts. These estimates translate directly into the evaluation of storage costs and investment profitability. The tool will also consider the degree of exploration of the deposit, which will determine the accuracy of the estimates. The proposed application is universal and can be used to determine rock salt deposits’ suitability and storage capacity, regardless of their locations.
ROTATING PROTON EXCHANGE MEMBRANE ELECTROLYSER
Promoter: ELEMENT ONE ENERGY AS
Country: Norway
The projec “Rotating Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyser” (RoPEM) aims to further develop an innovative, high-pressure, high current density, and high-efficiency proton exchange membrane electrolyser for green hydrogen production, in line with the EU’s Hydrogen Strategy to increase the green hydrogen production in Europe. The electrolyser’s efficiency will be enhanced by a rotating centrifugal electrolysis stack for gas/liquid separation, powered by inductive power transfer technology.
The environmental technology will enable storage of renewable energy and enable hydrogen as an economically feasible fossil-free fuel and energy carrier.
The innovation will impact blue economy value chains such as offshore wind, hydrogen refuelling stations for shipping, and other applications like subsea hydrogen storage and oxygen production for aquaculture. Ultimately, this RoPEM will help drive the transition to a greener, more sustainable future by making hydrogen a competitive alternative to fossil fuels in various industries.
The technology offers significant value to all hydrogen production applications by offering a scalable electrolyser with lower operating costs, lower installation costs and a smaller footprint than existing electrolysers.
Through six successful research Projects, our technology is now at TRL4 and the innovation has been thoroughly verified by our own testing and external universities and research organisations. With our diverse and experienced team, with both national and international partners, we are well positioned to eventually bring our technology to market.
As a Norwegian deep -tech company, we rely on institutional support to realise our disruptive innovation by a network of competence and resources.
ALL-WEATHER SUSPENDED PLATFORM FOR BLADE INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE
Promoter: Eptune Engineering, Lda.
Country: Portugal
The global energy demand is increasing rapidly and, as consequence, the greenhouse gas emissions are growing at a pace that worsens the planet’s climate crisis. The number of measures to increase green energy production is growing all around the globe, leading to the development and growth of wind and solar energy production systems.
Over the years, wind turbines have increased significantly in size and power output, and, consequently, the necessary area for installation and general dimension of wind farms have grown significantly. Offshore wind production is getting more and more attention, not only because it proves to be more efficient, but also because of the free area available and the less impact in surrounding areas, avoiding, for example, the complaints of some residents about landscape pollution and noise. However, offshore wind turbines are harder to place and more difficult to access when maintenance needs to be carried out. Maintenance is one of the main contributors to the high price of offshore wind energy. Maintenance in offshore wind turbines is more frequent because of high humidity, ice and saltwater exposure, which promotes quicker erosion. The time available for maintenance is given by the weather window that is based upon weather conditions. The reason why it is so important to take into accountthe weather window durind blade maintenance operations is the fact that this operations require proper weather conditions. Most standard maintenance operations cannot be conducted when waves exceed 1.5m, wind speeds are greater than 12 m/s, humidity is higher than 60%, and temperature is outside the 15 to26 degrees Celsius range.
The offshore wind energy market has been growing on an average of 24% each year since 2013 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 13.5% from 2019 to 2026. Europe is the largest offshore market up to date, representing 75% of the total global offshore wind installations.
The technologies that aim to increase the productivity of wind farms, in particular maintenance tools and equipment, have been receiving attention lately because of the blades that are aging, are on a harsh environment and requiring more frequent repairs. Current weather windows lead to the fact that only approximately 35% of the days in a year meet the appropriate requirements for maintenance procedures with most of them taking place during summertime. This limitation creates large economic losses in the energy production of the wind towers, since they can be inoperative or with the energy production output reduced for days or weeks due to existing damages. Another important aspect is that the maintenance costs are higher due to the high standby time of the technicians and seasonality.
Currently, the maintenance and inspection are made either by suspension on cables or through the usage of elevating metallic platforms, but neither one is flexible enough to allow the conduction of these operations easily and at any given time because they are not shielded from the environment. Between rope access and elevating platforms the later represents a more robust solution, but none of the available ones on the market answer to three fundamental problems, which are:
• the possibility to adapt to any given shape of the geometry of the blades avoiding inaccessible areas;
• the possibility to carry maintenance procedures in adverse climate conditions, like rain, snow, salty moist and very hot days;
• lateral stability to wind gusts and smooth transition of obstacles (tower flanges), especially with windy conditions.
Eptune Engineering, aware of this need in the Eolic market, has been working on this topic for some time. The team is experienced on the development of new products from scratch, namely on the space industry, and during these last years the team has been developing a series of independent systems that can be used on already existing platforms. We have a patent on a habitat with an advanced sealing system that avoids any water egression inside the working habitat allowing technicians to perform maintenance procedures even in harsh environmental conditions. We are currently developing the solution further to bring it to the market. In this project we will progress the technological readiness level from 6/7 to 8 in preparation to have a complete certified product on the market.
This project will be focused on a first moment to enhance the business validation and to promote product awareness. It is also dedicated to verify advanced manufacturing procedure, acquiring the elevation hoists, certify the system and start the testing procedures in workshop environment and up in the blade. Based on this project developments we will have a functional prototype certified that can be shown to the public on a trade fair. This project will take us the last mile to show case the product and start acquiring commercial leads to this innovation for wind blade repairs.
AQUACULTURE MONITOR
Promoter: e.Ray Europa GmbH
Country: Germany
The objective of the WAMO Platform developed by e. Ray Europa GmbH is for water level monitoring and water quality assessment in different aquatic environments. The satellited based loT (Internet of Things) WAMO is designed to be self-sustained, movable, and equipped with high-precision positioning technology and water quality sensors for collecting hydrological information. It provides a reliable and cost-effective solution in offshore aquaculture facilities such as fish farms, shellfish farms, and seaweed farms in their operation, and identifies potential risks.
By implementing WAMOs, we expect the water quality sensors can provide real-time data on various water quality parameters, enabling aquaculture operators to make informed decisions about water management. The system can provide a better understanding of the environmental conditions and potential risks in aquaculture operations. It uses solar energy, which makes it ideal for deployment in remote and off-grid areas. This feature reduces the operational costs of aquaculture operators by eliminating the need for external power sources and reducing maintenance costs. By monitoring water quality parameters, operators can ensure that they are not overloading the aquatic environment with waste products, which can harm marine ecosystems.
The WAMO platform that collects hydrological data can be integrated with other earth observation data sources to provide a more comprehensive understanding of offshore environments. By combining hydrological data with oceanic and atmospheric data can facilitate the development of new products, services, or processes for offshore wind energy. Also, the WAMO platform can be adapted for use in offshore oil and gas operations to monitor water quality parameters and prevent environmental damage caused by oil spills. This can contribute to the development of a sustainable blue economy by promoting environmentally responsible practices in the offshore oil and gas sector. Overall, WAMO’s self-sustaining design and continuous monitoring increase data accuracy, contributing to the adoption of digital technologies and the creation of new economic opportunities.
TOMORROW’S CHARGING TECHNOLOGY FOR ELECTRIC WATERBORNE TRANSPORT
Promoter: Ezone Energy AS
Country: Norway
This project will demonstrate the potential that lies in our new isolation transformer technology as link between AC and DC in shore power supply systems for vessels. The project will demonstrate increased charging capacity and increased power quality as a result of reduced Total Harmonic Distortions (THD).
We are targeting challenges linked to global energy infrastructure, with increased demand and burst capacity due to such things as electrification within the transport sector. Our main goal is to exploit a fundamental understanding of the physical laws that determine the quality, interference and losses in electrical power distribution systems to develop technologies that solve the challenges of wasted energy.
By making use of technology that significantly reduces harmonic distortion, users and developers of charging solutions can avoid problems that come as a result of harmonic distortion. Key benefits including among other things reduced battery degradation as a result of overvoltage, increased efficiency in the charging circuit, faster charging as a result of reduced temperature development – without a significant increase in costs.
Once proven in a full-scale pilot project, this technology is applicable for charging of batteries in all industries and sectors. Especially will the electrical vehicles, with focus on trucks and transport of goods have a significant benefit from this improved charging solution.
NOVEL INTEGRATED LIFETIME SENSORS
Promoter: FiberCheck GmbH
Country: Germany
In order to accurately determine the service life of a wind turbine, it is necessary to record loads on the tower of the turbine, as it is permanently exposed to vibrations during its operating time, which can lead to fatigue of the material. Mass-produced turbines have not implemented any load detection systems on the tower structures, as the tower structures are designed for the maximum possible loads that may occur over a 20-year operating life. Furthermore, the manufacturers have little interest in plants continuing to operate beyond the originally calculated service life. Retrofitting of monitoring systems by specialised measuring system manufacturers is often not possible because the tower must be machined at the bonding point for the application of necessary sensors for strain or acceleration measurement, which are
required for calculating the tower stiffness and remaining service life analysis. This intervention invalidates any guarantees given by the manufacturer, as a reduction in the integrity of the tower cannot be ruled out. No tampering of any kind may be carried out on the structure.
By means of a load and vibration detection system based on magnetic sensors, wind turbines could be equipped with an external measuring system, even temporarily, without interfering with the structure of the turbine. The aim of the project is to develop and test such a system, which also acts independently of the wind turbine’s control system. For the system, four strain sensors and one acceleration sensor are to be attached to the lower and upper tower level at different measuring points by means of magnets. Strain sensors from the company FiberCheck GmbH and some regular strain gauges (DMS) are chosen as reference sensors. The data collected by the sensors is forwarded to a computer, which optimises and stores the measurement data locally over the entire measurement period. In addition, a query of the
optimised data via mobile radio is planned.
A test turbine is already available for the planned project. This is a 12-year-old 3XM turbine from Senvion, at the Husum site. As the turbine was already equipped with a tower elongation recording system at an earlier time, historical data is available for comparison with a new recording system.
The aim of the project is to develop and prototype a mobile system that actively records tower strain and acceleration, stores it in an optimised form and can be retrieved via mobile radio (e.g. LTE). The nonpermanent connection via magnets allows the system to be retrofitted to existing turbines for limited periods of time and can be removed without leaving any residue once the measurement has been completed, so that a single system can be used to monitor different wind turbines. Condition assessment and fault detection can be used at any point in the operating life.
The developed system is to be used to estimate the remaining service life of the tower more precisely by means of analyses and simulations. This will make it possible to extend the operation of old plants until real material fatigue occurs. In addition, knowledge can be gained about foundation problems, system vibrations, maximum tower deflections and tower damage detection. Furthermore, it is to be investigated whether information on faults and damage to the rotor system with its blades can also be obtained by means of the tower measurement data obtained.
OFFSHORE SOLAR ENERGY DIGITAL TWIN FOR PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE
Promoter: FORCERA, LDA
Country: Portugal
Offshore solar energy is a sustainable, eco-friendly, and emerging source of energy that can help to mitigate climate change and contribute to European energy independence. While the global potential is substantial — estimated by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) to be around 1000 GW by 2050 — offshore solar energy is a relatively new and emerging market, as the costs of installation and maintenance can be higher, compared to onshore solar energy. In detail, the maintenance of offshore solar panels is difficult due to the harshness of marine environments, including saltwater corrosion, the damage produced by marine organisms, and extreme weather events. As offshore solar energy production sites are also difficult to access for maintenance and repairs, physical interventions are costly,
time-consuming, and should be minimised to improve cost-effectiveness and potentialize the benefits of offshore solar energy production.
Given this scenario, the OfftwAIn project will develop a novel product that combines Key Enabling Technologies (KETs) such as Digital Twin, Data Analytics, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, Predictive Maintenance, and large-scale Cloud-based simulations to monitor, predict, plan, and assess the state and improve the condition of offshore solar energy production sites, deeply contributing to a decrease of maintenance expenditures. The OfftwAIn solution will help maintenance teams with Realtime Monitoring, Remote Diagnostics, Simulation and Testing, and Predictive Maintenance tailored towards the offshore solar energy production sector.
The OfftwAIn project will be coordinated by FORCERA, a software, Analytics, and AI technology consulting start-up SME company with expertise in the domain of renewable energies. With this Blue Economy effort that has a cross-regional and cross-sectorial ambition, the company plans to reach a market value of 1.7M
EUR by 2026 while contributing to a reduction in the emissions of greenhouse gases, improving the work safety and conditions of maintenance personnel, increasing the efficiency of offshore solar energy production, and reducing the European environmental footprint.
CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND INNOVATION THROUGH SYSTEM INTEGRATION
Promoter: Ferdocean Shipping AS
Country: Norway
In connection with drilling operations and the extraction of oil & gas, large amounts of drilling waste are created by the operator companies are required to handle and processes. Today’s standard is shipping waste to shore using PSV vessels. The PSV vessels will be loaded with containers, filled with waste, for further thermal treatment and processing on land site. For the drilling operator this has been the easiest and best option as their primary desire is to focus on drilling rather than waste management. Due to the downturn in the oil industry in recent years, higher demands are now being made cost-effective solutions at the same time as the environmental aspect receives an increasing focus, as well as strict requirements for reducing emissions and sustainable business models. In order to reduce costs and environmental emissions in connection with waste management from drilling operations, the oil companies have a desire to, as far as possible, treat all drilling-related waste offshore. Today there are none floating solutions that allow waste management and processing of drilling waste, and on the basis of this, have, among other things Equinor installed a facility for thermal treatment of drilling cuttings at Johan Sverdrup. However, it is very little likely that operational platforms and rigs will retrofit such a facility due to strict licenses for emissions, as well as the space limitation on board in addition to high investment costs. Our business model is to exploit the lack of solutions for offshore waste management, by offering a floating vessels with facilities for the thermal treatment of all drilling-related waste on board a supply vessel, thereby ensuring optimal logistics of waste management and consequently a significant reduction in emissions of the harmful greenhouse gases CO2, NOx and SOx of between 70-80%.
FISH FARM INSPECTION SYSTEM HELPER
Promoter: Frontier Robotics Limited
Country: United Kingdom
The aquaculture industry is growing exponentially, in 2020 it was valued at $204billion globally (https://www.trade.gov/aquaculture-industry-summary) and it is expected to grow to $262billion by 2026. In aquaculture, fish farms account for 66% of the market value. With the growing number of fish farms, it is important to ensure that it is done in a sustainable manner. One issue is that damage to the farms’ nets can cause fish to escape. For farmers, this poses a risk for a huge financial loss, but from an ecological standpoint, the threat is profound. Escaped farmed fish can threaten the ecosystem, native species and interbreed with wild fish in the area. To reduce the risk of escape, nets holding the fish need to be inspected regularly. Today, this is commonly achieved with a person manually inspecting the nets using a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and assessing the conditions based on visual sensing. With the rapid growth in number of fish farms, using manual inspection is not scalable, and even more so the efficiency and full coverage cannot be guaranteed without a full overview of what has been inspected so far. In this project, Frontier Robotics (FR), a spin-out from Heriot-Watt University and the ORCA-Hub project, plans to integrate their Autonomous Underwater Inspection Payload (AUIP) with JM Robotics’ small scale, hand-deployable, ROV system. AUIP is a software framework that enables online mapping in harsh conditions and safe and robust autonomous operations. AUIP performed the industry’s first fully autonomous subsea inspection of a wind turbine (https://www.edfenergy.com/energywise/edf-deploys-unique-underwater-drone-carry-out-first-ever-autonomous-robotic-inspection-wind). Together Frontier Robotics and JM Robotics will fuse their expertise to develop a small scale, offshore ROV with online mapping and autonomous capabilities to enable an efficient and high-quality inspection system for aquaculture.
INTEGRATED ULTRASOUND BIOFOULING PREVENTION SYSTEM FOR OFFSHORE AQUACULTURE
Promoter: HASYTEC Electronics GmbH
Country: Germany
The INTegrated Ultrasound bIofouling prevenTIon system for oFfshore aquaculture (INTUITIF) project aims to address the growing issue of biofouling in the marine aquaculture sector by providing a biocide-free antifouling solution for offshore aquaculture structures. The project proposes to redesign the sound emitters of the Dynamic Intelligent Biofilm Protection (DBPi) ultrasound antifouling system by HASYTEC, making them durable and waterproof for permanent immersion in seawater. This innovation will not only eliminate the need for toxic antifouling coatings but also reduce operational costs for fish farms by increasing their efficiency and competitiveness. The project’s cross-sectoral aspect is highlighted by the development of a versatile, efficient, and environmentally friendly solution for the entire offshore sector. It strengthens the regional position for a climate-neutral future and aligns with development policies on a federal and national level.
HIGHEFFICIENCY, LIGHTWEIGHT ELECTRIC PROPULSION SYSTEM
Promoter: HydroCom GmbH
Country: Germany
With the increase in demand for alternative propulsion systems that not only improve the overall efficiency of the ship but also reduce the carbon footprints, innovators in the shipping industry are leaving no stone unturned to find a solution to this grave problem. With all the options presently available at hand, electric propulsion system seems to have a promising future.
To meet the challenge of high operating cost and marine pollution, ships propulsion system has changed from conventional power system to electric propulsion system. conventional way of driving Ship forward is the use of a prime mover to power a propeller through a shaft, and that of the ship the electric drive is driven by the prime mover and produces a generator and electricity Power is supplied to the drive motor through a frequency converter and the propeller is the propulsion engine propels the ship forward. The electric drive is Benefits High mobility, good security and reliability, high degree of automation, excellent Environmental protection.
In this project an innovative constructive solution for counter rotating electric ship propulsion system will be developed in which two 75 kW motor is used to generate power in both directions for larger passenger ships or medium size cargo vehicle. It consists of mainly five parts: the stationary component of electromagnetic circuits in motors called stator. Secondly, in electrical motors, the whole linear synchronously rotating part of the machine is termed the rotor. Propeller which is a combination of carbon and glass fiber. Fourth and most important part is bearing technique in order to transmit smooth rotational motion to rotor. And finally, an electric motor for azimuth, that can generate thrust in all directions by rotating the casing with an electric motor. Used on offshore specialty vessels to improve berthing and maneuvering performance in harbors and enable dynamic positioning.
The presented prolusion system does not require complex manufacturing techniques. In contrast, depending on the application, the propeller blades are made of glass fibers and connected to the propeller hub, which is mounted with the rotor. Propeller blades can be manufactured using mould. Which is very cost effective. The main challenge for subsea propulsion is to use an appropriate bearing technology to achieve the desired efficiency without harming the environment. In this project, a ceramic bearing set will be used to transmit the rotational motion from the stator to the propeller. The second important point is to isolate the stator winding of the motor and the rotor magnates from salty sea water or normal water. The copper wire that is typically used for motor winding corrodes quickly, but more immediate is the fact that salt water is conductive, so it will short out the electrical circuit.
The extraordinary scalability of the design enables the development of propulsion unit of various sizes for the equipment of all kinds of ships such as ferries, trawlers, and service ships. Due to the high customizability, the technique is highly suitable for the conversion of conventional propulsion systems of older watercraft.
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURED CERAMICS - OFFSHORE
Promoter: LEBMEIER FORSCHUNG · BERATUNG · KONSTRUKTION
Country: Germany
In the offshore sector, the protection of structures or functional components made of metal is usually ensured by painting and anti-fouling agents. However, these processes only provide temporary protection against e.g. corrosion and pollute the waters due to their temporal dissolution in the water.
Within the AMaC-O project, the possibility of using additively manufactured ceramic components in the offshore sector is to be investigated and implemented. Based on LEBMEIER’s extensive knowledge of the material C-SiC, the idea arose to be able to replace components in this sector with various ceramic materials. Basically, the planned components have a very high abrasion resistance and can be adapted to the requirements due to the new manufacturing process. If necessary, it is intended to use the possibility of connecting individual components in the manufacturing process from several elements to a single, larger element. In the process, elements could also be connected to elements, which have different properties in detail and thus make the overall component better able to fulfil the overall task. In addition to the resulting geometric diversity, this also allows a very large adaptation of the material to the requirements. For example, a variable surface roughness (braking – sliding) or partially increased strength. A fibre reinforcement already present in the manufacturing process or fibre reinforcement integrated into components in further steps can also enable the planned components to absorb significantly greater forces.
The possibilities of additive manufacturing are currently being rapidly advanced by various players on the market, so that we as SMEs are certainly not currently aware of the full potential. However, the manufacturing processes known to us reveal a great diversity. At the moment, we are not aware of any supplier of additively manufactured ceramic components for the offshore market.
However, to the best of our current knowledge, we would like to mention some examples of elements such as ducts (ropes, rods), trim tabs on boats or rudder elements. All these components could be produced in very small quantities at low cost as pressure components. The high environmental compatibility of ceramic materials and their usually very high oxidation resistance will be investigated in the project for various additively manufactured materials under operating conditions. A series of tests with highly sensitive maritime plants is planned in order to gain initial insights into the environmental compatibility. If necessary, relevant research institutes can be involved without any problems. In the further course of the project, practical demonstrators are to be created in order to prove their practical applicability. In this way, the planned cleaning of deposits on the components by means of high-pressure cleaning (seawater) can also be investigated. We assume that this cleaning will not affect the usability of the components and that no environmentally harmful (fouling) agents or additional coatings (rust protection paint) or other processes (e.g. sacrificial anodes) would have to be used. This would be a significant contribution to increasing the environmental compatibility of many maritime components. In addition, the bandwidth of manufacturing processes provides new freedom to implement previously impossible optimisations on known component geometries.
UNCREWED OFFSHORE INSPECTION VESSEL
Promoter: Lemvos GmbH
Country: Germany
Lemvos is pioneering the development of a new generation of unmanned surface vessels (USV) designed to enable 100% remote inspection of offshore and onshore infrastructure. Specifically, our boats are intended to reduce the number of crewed operations for offshore wind turbines, in both underwater and above water inspections.
Uncrewed vessels in the last years have become increasingly popular for surveying operations, but the regular maintenance operations and inspections are still mostly done by manned operations. For example, scanning of the foundations of wind turbines for sediment movements, performing visual above water inspections or inspection of underwater cables back to the land. Our vessels are powered by renewable energy sources and are capable of operating totally remotely or autonomously for months to years without any direct human contact.
The key to enabling long duration missions without human contact lies in overcoming two major challenges:
1. Energy Source: Unmanned boats require energy, traditionally in the form of batteries or fossil fuels. Up until now, replacing these energy sources has required human intervention on site. Lemvos has addressed this issue by utilizing solar energy and a remote charger, located at an automated docking station.
2. Autonomous Docking: Small survey boats typically require manual deployment and retrieval from the water, while larger boats need to be secured to the dock using ropes, also a manual operation. Lemvos’ floating dock and digitally controlled latch mechanism eliminates these requirements, allowing for 100% uncrewed operations.
By addressing these challenges Lemvos’s technology will enable USVs to provide the offshore wind industry and potentially other offshore energy industries with cost effective industry 4.0 solutions which will ultimately reduce CO2 emissions and labour costs.
OPTIMIZATION TOOL FOR DAILY ROUTE PLANNING AND SCHEDULING OF MAINTENANCE VESSEL ACTIVITIES IN OFFSHORE WIND FARMS
Promoter: Mappost
Country: Latvia
The objective of this project is to develop an optimization tool for daily route planning and scheduling of maintenance vessel activities in offshore wind farms using Industry 4.0/digitalisation technologies (IoT, AI, and Big Data). The tool will cover both predictive and preventive maintenance, contributing to the deployment of Key Enabling Technologies (KETs) and industrial modernization in the Blue Economy.
The project aims to enhance the innovation capacity of Mappost and strengthen its competitiveness and growth potential in the market. The expected outcome is a fully functional prototype validated in the industrial environment that will provide a significant competitive advantage to Mappost and position it as a leading provider of advanced optimization tools for offshore wind farms.
The project will contribute to cross-sectoral and cross-regional innovation by promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices between industries and regions. The project results will be disseminated through various channels, including internationalisation events, and investor rounds, ensuring a broad impact on the industry.
USING GREENANKER® TECHNOLOGY TO STRENGTHEN QUAY WALLS
Promoter: matrics engineering GmbH
Country: Germany
The primary aim is to develop inclined anchor plates for geotechnical anchors made of corrosion resistant ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC). In addition, a very robust UHPC cap for the protection of the anchor head will be developed for maritime conditions.
These products will be used for the strengthening of quay walls in harbours. In some cases, a strengthening of the quay walls has to be done because of the deterioration of the wall itself or due to a deepening of the harbour to allow for larger ships. Usually, ordinary anchor systems will be used. Up till now, anchors with larger diameters are used because of the influence of corrosion. The anchor itself corrode over the lifetime, so the diameter is bigger than for the static purpose.
Geotechnic anchor systems will be adapted with anchor plates and caps made of corrosion resistant and robust UHPC. Concrete itself protects the steel against chlorides. UHPC protects the steel up to 80 times better against chlorides than ordinary concrete does. Components such as these are already developed and have been shown to reach TRL 9. The whole system is designed to prevent corrosion in its lifetime. The amount of steel will be minimized up to 40 % for the whole anchor system.
Also, the anchor plate and the cap need approximately 20 % – 60 % less CO2 than comparable products made of corrosion protected steel. This is caused by the lower emission during the production of the raw material and the production of the products itself.
The anchor plates and the caps are not limited to strengthening quay walls. They could also be used for tensioning systems of offshore aqua cultures and floating wind farms. The system will be adapted to transfer forces from the tensioned mooring lines to the structure and protect them against corrosion.
OPTIMIZED POWER SUPPLY: DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF AN ADVANCED BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR LEAD-ACID BATTERIES
Promoter: NautiTronix UG (haftungsbeschränkt)
Country: Germany
“Optimized Power Supply: Development and Implementation of an Advanced Battery Management System for Lead-Acid Batteries”. The objective of a battery management system for lead-acid batteries is to ensure that the batteries are operated within safe limits, prolonging their lifespan and improving their performance. The expected outcome of the project is a hardware and software system that can monitor the state of the batteries in real-time even on battery-cell-level, provide early warnings of potential issues, and optimize charging and discharging to maximize battery performance and longevity. The cross-sectoral aspect of the project refers to the potential for the battery management system to be used in a variety of industries such as transportation, renewable energy storage, and backup power for critical infrastructure. By developing a system that can be used across multiple sectors, the project can have a broader impact and potentially lead to increased adoption of lead-acid batteries in these industries. Our innovation project aims to develop a novel battery management system (BMS) for marine applications in the Blue Economy. Our BMS will be specifically designed to optimize the performance and lifespan of lead-acid batteries used in marine vessels, such as boats and ships, but as mentioned above, can also be used in other applications.
DEVELOPMENT OF CARBON FIBER REINFORCED UHPC FOR USE IN HARSH OFFSHORE CONDITIONS AS WELL AS PORT FACILITIES
Promoter: newcycle GmbH
Country: Germany
Development of carbon fiber reinforced UHPC (Ultrahigh-Performance-Concrete) for use in harsh off shore conditions as well as port facilities. The subject of this project outline is the development, practical application as well as setting the course for achieving market maturity for UHPC with carbon reinforcement. This new combination is to be technically developed and theoretically investigated in particular for structures in the area of offshore and port facilities, for example quay walls or locks. A successful introduction in this segment and its process optimization in less demanding subsections would make a significant contribution to reducing the CO2 footprint in the construction industry.
Goals of the project
• Massive reduction of CO2 emissions in the construction industry
• Savings in primary resources
• Increased service life of structures
• Cost reduction through faster and resource-saving construction
Consequently, our goal is to create the preconditions for the widespread use of C-UHPC as an important mass construction material for reducing CO2 emissions.
SMALL SCALE MOBILE SEAWEED DRIER
Promoter: Oban Drying Company Ltd
Country: United Kingdom
Scotland’s seaweed farming sector is estimated to be worth £70 million per year according scotland.org from Feb-23 www.scotland.org/inspiration/scotland-seaweed-farming-sector. Seaweed is not just used for food for human consumption and animal feed. It also has wide range of applications as a raw material for cosmetics, fertilisers, pharmaceuticals and biodegradable packaging. The sector is set for a rapid expansion over the coming 5-10 years.
However, the industry still faces major barriers to development, mainly related to lack of primary processing infrastructure, poor supply-chain coordination, and underdeveloped markets. This is outlined in a 40-page report “Facilitating development of the seaweed cultivation industry in Scotland” by Dr Kyla Orr, commissioned by The Sustainable Inshore Fisheries Trust (SIFT).
Once harvested, seaweed has a very short window of a few days before it will start to decompose and spoil. Seaweed generally needs to be dried soon after harvesting, turning it into a stable product that can be further processed.
Drying seaweed has some specific challenges. The high moisture content, “stickiness” and delicate nature of the seaweed makes drying problematic. Traditional continuous belt driers simply do not work well for this specific product. To our knowledge there is no UK system designed specifically to dry seaweed. Batch driers work well but are slow and labour intensive and not designed for high throughput.
Over the past 18 months we have designed and built a prototype machine specifically designed to dry various types of seaweed. The machine addresses the fundamental problems by using a rotating drum with a heat exchanger system with precise air flows that stop seaweed sticking to the surfaces. Accurate temperature control and control of resonance time make it versatile for a wide variety of seaweed types and applications. The unit we have built is mobile and mounted on a 7.5 tonne lorry. Initial trials have been very promising. We are due to carry out some trials with the machine on a seaweed farm on the Isle of Mull in early April 2023.
The project is to carry out extensive trials “in the field” with the existing drier. Results and data on the systems performance will be collected and analysed. Improvements and potential modifications will be made. The output of the project will be a template for a fully commercial drier, at various scales, to serve the seaweed drying industry in Scotland and further afield.
SURFACE TREATMENT OF ALUMINUM ALLOYS TO IMPROVE MECHANICAL AND TECHNICAL PROPERTIES FOR HULL CONSTRUCTION
Promoter: PEOsolutions Lab LTD
Country: Latvia
The aim of the project is to research and develop a prototype of Aluminum alloy 5052 or 5083, improving its mechanical and physical properties by the plasma electrolytic oxidation method, in order to completely replace steel with PEO-coated Aluminum in the construction of ship hulls.
With PEO coating, it is planned to test which of the mentioned alloys will demonstrate better mechanical and physical properties, improving the properties such as – corrosion protection, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity and protection against mechanical damage. As a result, improvements by a factor of at least 1.3 are expected.
Aluminum is and is widely used in various industries, but in the space, transport and aviation industry, aluminum plays an especially large role, considering its lightweight properties. For example, in the space industry, Aluminum alloy 7075 is used, the price of which is significantly higher compared to 5052 and 5083. Investigating improvements to this material will potentially lead to cost reductions in other industries as well, using cheaper alternatives that provide the same mechanical and physical properties when coated with PEO.
PAULOWNIA WOOD AS A NOVEL CORE MATERIAL FOR ROTOR BLADES (PAULOWNIA CORE MATERIALS - PACOMA) AS A (PARTIAL) SUBSTITUTE FOR BALSA CORE MATERIAL
Promoter: Polownia Sp. z o.o.
Country: Poland
Paulownia wood as a novel core material for rotor blades (Paulownia Core Materials – PaCoMa) as a (partial) substitute for Balsa core material.
In 2021, the German government decided that an installed offshore wind energy capacity of 30 GW should be reached in Germany alone by 2030. This ambitious target means an addition of about 1,000 offshore wind turbines per year alone (assuming a standard size of a wind turbine of 3 MW). Considering that each rotor blade of this wind turbine requires between 5 and 6 cubic meters of Balsa wood, it becomes clear why it is already assumed that there will be a shortage of Balsa wood on the world market in the next few years. Another problem is the concentration of Balsa wood production in the South American country of Ecuador, which accounts for 80 to 90 percent of the Balsa wood available worldwide. To counter this problem, the second lightest wood after Balsa comes into play, Paulownia wood. Although it has a slightly higher density, it is more stable, more durable, available in large quantities in Europe and Asia, less expensive and has better properties in terms of flash point and moisture absorption. However, there is a lack of empirical data and test results on the extent to which the wood, despite its higher weight, can replace Balsa as the core material in rotor blades and on the extent to which it can meet existing standards and regulations. Other applications for Paulownia wood have been known for years. For example, Paulownia wood is established in the furniture industry, where it is already replacing Balsa, and it is also used as a composite material in skis and water sports equipment as a substitute for Balsa. The existing gap of a cross-sectoral use as advanced core material in rotor blades of wind turbines shall be addressed with the corresponding development of a prototype and subsequent prototype testing.
ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY CRYOGENIC POLYURETHANE INSULATION FOR OFFSHORE LNG TRANSPORT AND STORAGE
Promoter: Polylabs SIA
Country: Latvia
Polyurethane foam (PU) is the most universal and popular insulation in the world as it is used in every industry – from shipbuilding, to automotive, construction and many other. Polylabs has been in the PU market since 2014 – manufacturing one of the key raw materials – bio polyols to replace fossil origin materials in the PU industry and make the industry environment friendly.
Polylabs has a space technology that can be adopted to terrestrial applications – offshore LNG transport and storage – CRYOFOAM.
CRYOFOAM is a technology developed for space applications – rocket launcher fuel tank insulation environmentally friendly (confirms new REACH requirements and low GWP) cryogenic polyurethane foams with low density, closed cell structure and high safety coefficient usable as blow-on insulation for extra large and complex rocket internal tank surfaces like bulkheads and for Liquid nitrogen and hydrogen gas applications. These gases are used as fuel in rocket launchers AND have to be stored at ultra-low temperatures (-210C nitrogen, -252C hydrogen).
LNG (liquid natural gas) is a natural gas that has been liquefied and has only 1/600 of its volume in a gaseous state. The natural gas is cooled to -1640 degrees Celsius in order to liquefy it. LNG’s reduced volume makes it ideal for efficient transport and storage. Low LNG temperatures place high demands on the equipment used for LNG storage and transportation (carrier ships, pipework systems, and storage tanks). These pipes and tanks must be permanently thermally insulated. This calls for cryogenic insulation. Rising LNG demand is expected to boost the global cryogenic insulation market.
Within the project we want to combine our experience in polyol production with the CRYOFOAM technology and use that to create a new environmentally friendly PU insulation that can be used in LNG transport and storage (offshore and onshore).
The project objectives are as follow:
1. create a custom-built PU foam measurement equipment,
2. identify LNG requirements for insulation
3. adapt the CRYOFOAM formulation to LNG needs, test the product with the equipment.
4. Introduce the formulation to a select customer in LNG industry
5. Promote the product to a wider audience
The expected outcome will be an environment friendly, bio based insulation foam, which can be used cross sectoral in offshore LNG transport as well as onshore storage and transport, shipbuilding and other sectors.
INTRODUCTION OF DECKCELLGUIDES ON ULTRA LARGE CONTAINER SHIPS (IN HARMONY WITH HATCH COVERS)
Promoter: res maritimae UG (haftungsbeschraenkt)
Country: Latvia
The high number of recent high profile incidents featuring container losses and fires on Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCS) has drawn the attention of several stake holders on possible technical solutions to reduce the respective risks.
One idea is the introduction of the novel DeckCellguide system, a simple but effective concept to prevent any container losses into the sea and to enhance fire safety in parallel as it would also provide a platform for the installation of advanced firefighting equipment at height to effectively fight burning containers stowed on deck. A special design feature for which patents have been applied allows the installation of the DeckCellguides in harmony with the standard pontoon hatchcovers of container ships. Hence, even existing vessels can be retrofitted with the DeckCellguide system.
The additional investment into the DeckCellguide system would be fully financed by the saved costs for manual lashing work. Hence, DeckCellguides are not only a measure to protect the marine environment and increase the safety standard of container ships but provide also a business case for their owners/operators.
CONTINUOUS MACHINE VISION BASED CALIBRATION FOR ROBOTIC CELLS IN WATERBORNE TRANSPORT
Promoter: ROBOEATZ SIA
Country: Latvia
The proposed research project aims to develop a continuous machine vision-based calibration system for food service robotics cell to be used in waterborne transport applications. The project seeks to address the challenges faced by the off-shore industry labour shortages and maintaining quality meals for staff and customers.
The project will leverage computer vision technology, force sensors, and artificial intelligence/machine learning algorithms to develop a system that can continuously adjust the position and orientation of the robotic cell in real-time. The system will be tested and validated in a food service environment.
The research outcomes of this project will allow to deploy food service robotics in waterborne transport applications. The project will contribute to the development of more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable food service operations, while improving the quality of service and the customer experience.
The proposed research project aligns with the goals of the funding agency, which seeks to support innovative research and development projects that have significant potential for social and economic impact.
GREEN WORKFLOW AUTOMATION
Promoter: RobotNest SIA
Country: Latvia
The project addresses the safety of waterborne transport systems, including surface water drones and any other water transport. Since it is necessary to ensure the safety of water routes, they are constantly monitored and mapped using sonar sensors mounted on automated or piloted water inspection vehicles. The process is called bathymetry, which produces millions of data points – sonar reflection mapped using high-accuracy GPS sensors. Unfortunately, due to physics, there might be a significant fraction of noise that must be cleaned, or it produces fake obstacles in the water route maps.
Problem: Post-processing bathymetry data requires considerable time and technical, financial and human resources. This requires the aquarium holder to prioritize the bathymetry measurements – extending the periods between measurements, focusing only on high-priority and compulsory measures.
Unique value proposition: based on the research results in Riga Technical University, an AI-based data processing automation solution has been developed, which might play a key role in the problem solution by acquiring the software prototype license and further development into a final data processing pipeline automation solution.
Solution: During the project the whole cloud based software solution will be commercialized. Solution consists of AI-based algorithms that will be adjusted for bathymetry data post processing. This solution will reduce manual labour of bathymetry data post-processing operators. Also automated solutions eliminates any type of bias and human error, allowing operator to focus on the whole picture rather than small group of points.
DEEP SEA WIND FARM BUOYS
Promoter: Subsea Bellows AS
Country: Norway
Subsea Bellows is developing a new type of buoy to replace large steel buoys in ‘shared anchor systems’ for floating wind farms. The new buoy has the potential to save €0.5 million, and 98% of CO2 emissions, per buoy. With a potential market for over 7000 buoys in the EU alone, by 2030, this represents potential savings of €3.5 billion and over 700.000 tons in CO2 emissions.
The ‘pressurized soft buoy’ is the result of cooperation between mooring engineers, and composite designers, using patented European technology normally applied to rigid parts for the aviation and automobile industries.
The deflated and lightweight buoys can be delivered worldwide, with effective logistics from Europe. This contributes to solving bottlenecks in the expanding floating wind farm industry, at lower cost, and with lower CO2 emissions, while strengthening high-end manufacturing in Europe.
ROBOTIC SOLUTION FOR HYPERSPECTRAL-BASED SORTING OF MARINE PLASTIC WASTE
Promoter: STAM S.r.l.
Country: Italy
Plastic waste makes up 80% of all marine pollution, with more than 8 million tons of plastic that end up in the ocean each year1 (3% of global annual plastic waste). This issue requires a worldwide cooperation, since its consequences affect both the ocean and human health. Many organisations are already fighting this problem, deploying garbage collection ships in the oceans. SEAPLAST aims at contributing to the reduction of the marine water pollution, by implementing an automated sorting system that can separate plastic waste according to the polymeric composition; the system will be deployed on vessels for clean-up missions. The solution combines several technologies, enabling an effective sorting of the plastic marine waste. It is based on three building blocks: the hyperspectral vision system, the mechatronics and the elaboration unit. The hyperspectral camera operates in the NIR (Near Infra-Red) spectrum. The raw data captured by the camera are sent and analysed by the elaboration unit. This unit uses a combination of machine learning and image processing techniques to extract the relevant features required to identify and classify the waste material. The mechatronic part is responsible for material transport; the plastic waste is handled by a conveyor belt, while a robotic arm performs the physical sorting. Based on the algorithms output, which identifies the polymer type and location, the system automatically generates the robot trajectory to pick up the item and place it in the appropriate storage area.
SEAPLAST simplifies the recycling of plastics collected in the ocean, enabling an automatic sorting of the polymers, distinguishing high value recyclable plastics from non-recyclable ones. Considering the growing interest in recycled plastic and the amount of ocean waste, SEAPLAST will introduce substantial economic and environmental benefits in the clean-up missions of the coming years. Moreover, SEAPLAST is expected to generate positive impacts to all the fields of blue economy. For instance, the system can also be implemented in offshore platforms, simplifying waste sorting, as well as on cruise ships, extending the range of recyclable waste and encouraging plastic collection.
AI WARN
Promoter: SHINOBI PICTURES SP. Z O.O.
Country: Poland
The aim of the project is to develop a tool for scanning the sea surface and detecting and locating containers floating on it. The solution developed as part of the project will be based on the implementation of proprietary neural networks trained to recognize and classify image elements.
The expected result of the project will be the development of technology for automated scanning of the surface of seas and oceans, as well as the detection and location of floating containers lost by transport ships, which pose a serious threat to the marine ecosystem and objects moving on the sea.
The project fits into the aquaculture sector and water transport. On the one hand, it allows you to create an innovative tool for locating shadow containers, which are a kind of waste of human transport activities within the water environment. The implementation of the project will increase the safety of both marine organisms and vessels, creating conditions for their catching, disposal or observation. Spectrum containers made of metal are filled with a mixture of materials containing plastics and other environmentally hazardous substances. Their abandonment at sea causes pollution of the aquatic environment with waste and other difficult to predict substances harmful to the natural ecosystem, which get into the water and negatively affect fish and the quality of catches.
The implementation of the project also fits into the area related to water transport. Shadow containers move drifting with sea currents on the surface of the water, posing a danger to vessels. In the event of a collision, they can damage the hull of the vessel and lead to health or life-threatening situations.
With the development of civilization and consumption, actions to clean the seas and oceans from waste, as well as investments in technologies that enable effective removal of waste from water, are increasingly needed.
The key result of the project – the development of a technology for automated recognition and location of containers – spectra shows a high degree of complementarity with the projects implemented so far in the field of cleaning the marine environment from waste.
The project implements the objectives of regional development for Poland (Wielkopolskie Voivodship), including, among others, ICT-based development. The subject of the project is the implementation of an innovative solution based on ICT technologies such as: AI, machine learning, neural networks.
At the same time, it pursues strategic goals at the EU level, i.e. the objectives of the Green Deal – contributing to the protection and restoration of ecosystems and biodiversity of the marine environment, Circular Economy objectives – contributing to the effective acquisition of waste materials that can be processed as a full-fledged reused material, Blue Economy goals – contributing to a more sustainable fisheries policy, i.e. counteracting the negative impact of fishing on the marine ecosystem.
NEXT GENERATION FARMING METHOD
Promoter: Sub-Sea Harvest AS
Country: Norway
The Subsea Harvest technology provides a new and innovative concept for fish farming which is based on state of art maritime knowledge, proven principles and offshore technology solutions from both the oil&gas industry and from the traditional sea- and land-based fish farming industry.
The Subsea Harvest concept is a sea-based closed-containment system where the main objective of the system is to ensure a sustainable use of the oceans and marine resources and to contribute to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint. This is achieved through better methods of disease control, reduced water pollution, prevention of fish escape and lower energy consumption.
A unique feature of the concept is the ability to move the containment vertically in the sea by a jack-up system allowing to utilize the sea water at different depths which can provide the most beneficial water temperatures and water quality. Thus, providing stable and optimal growth conditions for the fish.
ZEROCORROSION
Promoter: SubseaScanning AS
Country: Norway
We develop an efficient method for detecting and classifying corrosion on offshore structures made of steel. This comprises oil-&gas platforms, vessels, terminals, wind-parks and structures from aquaculture.
Any steel-structure suffers from corrosion at a certain age, a process that is drastically accelerated by harsh offshore conditions. At the same time, many structures are required to exceed their life-time – due to delays and/or increased capacity needs. Our innovative technology solves this problem: SubseaScanning develops an easy-to-use, mobile sensor system, which allows offshore workers to digitize critical parts of steel-structures – fast and reliably. Our sensor is complemented by an AI-based software, which detects and classifies corrosion in the recorded data. The results are transferred to the customer through a web-based portal, are easy to interpret, and enable preventive measures: at early stage, the corrosion may be stopped by applying small targeted repairs – preventing significant costs and waste. If already at late stage, reinforcements and replacements prevent leaks, which otherwise endanger the sensible maritime environment. Our technology extends the life time of offshore structures, protects the environment, reduces large amount of waste and saves costs. But detecting and classifying corrosion also means the possibility to gain efficiency of moving parts, while simultaneously preventing accidents caused by failing steel and sharp corroded particles. With the support for this project, we will advance the green
shift, while securing Europe energy supply.
TURBOSPECT-AUTOMATED VISUAL INSPECTION OF WIND TURBINES USING SYNTHETIC IMAGE DATA AND AUTONOMOUS DRONES
Promoter: SI Synthetic Images UG
Country: Germany
Turbospect is a project focused on boosting wind turbine maintenance operational efficiency through the use of synthetic image data and simulations for advanced, automated visual inspection. The project aims to develop and apply advanced deep learning techniques that can accurately detect and classify defects in wind turbine blades, using synthetic training data to simulate various types of defects. By leveraging this technology, Turbospect seeks to significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of blade
inspection, reducing the risk of costly blade failures and improving the overall sustainability of offshore wind energy. Through cross-sectoral collaboration between wind energy operators, technology providers, and research institutions, Turbospect aims to pave the way for wider adoption of this technology in the offshore wind industry.
ENVICONVEY SAFE DRILL CUTTING HANDLING
Promoter: TECHNI AS
Country: Norway
TECHNI have developed and piloted an especially adaptive pump system for fluids and solids filled flow streams of abrasive fluid types called Quad. The special idea behind the pump is that one could part with the traditional mechanical flywheel adding energy to move fluids, and instead the system drives the fluids plunging method driving the diaphragm pump modules with high density permanent magnet motors with a software based energy regulation. This enables optimal process flow regimes with a variable table of options for immediate changes to the flow regime if changed fluid properties occur, like large gas fractions, hydrated ice, sand, gravel or even boulders enters the fluid flow. The ability to regulate the flow extremely fast based on the influx parameters have vast potential when it comes to transport of problematic hydraulic mass, like swelling and gas omitting sediments.
If the outtake from drilling operations could separate cuttings from actual fluid fast enough, the fluid could be reprocessed directly at the point of operation so that waste could be reduced by up to 40%. This would in turn mean that waste handling, i.e. shipping of waste from offshore platforms to deposits on shore would be reduced by 40%.
TIDETEC INTEGRATED DEPENDABLE ENERGY AND STORAGE
Promoter: Tidetec AS
Country: Norway
As the world is transitioning to intermittent energy sources, there is a great need for clean energy production that can provide a dependable baseload to the grid. Tidal range utilizes the natural rise and fall of the tide, which provides predictable and low impact energy generation. Tidetec has developed a turbine system that allows for efficient two-way generation and pumping. By utilizing a turning mechanism, the turbine can be rotated so that it is always facing in the right direction to the flow at highest efficiency.
This project proposal will be to install a turbine in a redundant dry dock in the UK, demonstrating Tidetec’s technology and establishing the viability of small commercial tidal range projects. The UK has one of the greatest tidal range potentials in the world and in addition has many dry docks and ports that are not in use anymore or used infrequently. This provides a great opportunity for small-scall tidal range projects. Integrating this project into infrastructure decreases upfront costs, reduces the timeline, and provides a better entry to market strategy. The project will involve an initial assessment phase that will determine the exact size and number of turbines needed and their placement. In addition to the goal of demonstrating Tidetec’s technology, the overall goals of the project are as follows: improving the range and flexibility of energy services to the grid, providing a new source of energy production for local areas and increasing the flexibility of the grid (especially in collaboration with intermittent renewable energy sources).
This project will have several favorable outcomes. Firstly, this turbine will be effective at generating energy and can provide a local source of energy. The ability to demonstrate the technology will provide a basis for establishing future projects in a variety of applications. The turning mechanism and high pumping efficiency not only makes Tidetec’s solution good for tidal range, but also for energy storage applications. This fact, along with Tidetec’s compact and modular design, allows for its use in several other sectors. Onshore aquafarming, existing hydropower and energy islands could all benefit from Tidetec’s technology. The reason to select the first location in UK is that they have perfect natural resources in high tidal range in shallow waters and lots of unused, redundant dry-docks perfectly suitable for demonstration of both tidal range energy generation and low head marine pumped hydro.
TOTAL RENEWABLE ENERGY INSIGHTS OFFSHORE
Promoter: Trios Renewables Ltd
Country: United Kingdom
The primary goal of TRIOS (Total Renewables Insights OffShore) is to take the rich ‘data ecosystem’ of high resolution met ocean models and data available to offshore wind farm operators, and translate this into an enhanced cost and safety performance. The project will achieve this by properly linking high resolution spatial met ocean data & turbine performance (concept pictured in Figure 1) with key operational decisions, such as vessel despatch decisions. Current industry products do not fully address the spatial aspects of offshore wind operations and accessibility. Figure 1 shows that by embedding spatial intelligence into operations, a site may be accessed safely (arrows) even when the site experiences challenging weather. By embedding this intelligence in our models, we expect to enhance the revenue of a typical site by around €1.15m per annum, and also substantially improve the safety margin for critical marginal-call weather transfers. In doing so we will create a powerful new SME-led service, which we intend to take to market as soon as possible on completion of the project.
GREEN OFFSHORE TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGY FOR LIABLE, INTELLIGENT NAVIGATION DECARBONIZING EUROPE
Promoter: Unleash Future Boats
Country: Germany
The offshore industry is facing a lot of challenges. The FitFor55 Program is expecting all stakeholders to reduce emissions. The European Union has introduced new European Trading System ETS2, including maritime shipping. When we look at offshore wind parks, logistic remain a big problem in ESG reports. Vessels supporting clean energy still pollute our oceans and air alike. In the meantime, abandoned ammunition of World War 2 (WWII) is exposing dangerous chemicals to our seas. Meanwhile, 70% of our planet is covered with oceans and the Blue Economy contains unknown secrets that could ease our situation in times of climate change. High Seas => High expectations. Blue Economy must become a Green Economy.
This is where our proposal kicks in. Unleash Future Boats is presenting zero emission and fully autonomous boats and ships. In 2021, we already christened the world’s first true zero emission vessel that is fully autonomous (no remote, no strings attached) including a global valid license and insurance for two passengers with no captain.
Building the complete system, we noticed both the huge potential and difficulties of clean propulsion technologies. Our industry background includes automotive industry, avionics and maritime. By intersecting our skills, we emerged with a new type of hybrid. Battery electric vessels with a hydrogen range extender. In our project proposal, we will advance in two critical key criteria:
#1: fully digital and AI based diagnostic
#2: stackable fuel cell modules
Fully digital and AI data diagnostics and online connectivity will be required in large rollouts, because electric drives require very little and almost no maintenance. Our systems will include online diagnostics in order to ensure maximum safety and security for every single cruise. Low maintenance costs, increased safety and security. Zero Emission.
We want to proceed with an all-European power train that bears highest potential in automated production of equal units. Equal units are the key for cost-effective mass-market production to replace international dependencies, untie economic bonds in times of geopolitical conflicts and respond to disrupted supply chains. It is a cross-industry innovation project with shared values. Our partner is based in Germany with employees in Spain, creating a cross-regional project. Because our zero emission
propulsion drives are retrofitting kits, shared value creation with shipyards all over Europe is of European Common Interest.
This project is in the spotlight of the UN-ECE Transformative Innovation Network and has been awarded the SDGs of the United Nations.
NOVEL INSULATION MATERIAL FOR HABITABLE SPACES AND WORKING SPACES ON MOBILE AND FIXED OFFSHORE UNITS
Promoter: VestaEco NONWOVENS Sp. z o.o.
Country: Poland
The Project aims to develop an insulation material suitable for offshore applications using recycled cellulose acetate fibres, providing thermal and acoustic comfort for workers. The insulation material produced using non-toxic fire retardants can be classified as non-combustible and its high density combined with moisture sorption and desorption capability protects against cold in winter and overheating in summer. The Project proposes reusing clean post-production offcuts of filtration products made of virgin acetate fibres into eco-designed and efficient insulation materials, suitable for industrial and offshore applications. The use of recycled cellulose acetate fibres can help reduce carbon footprints and contribute to a more sustainable future. Compared to mineral wool, the proposed insulation material requires significantly lower temperatures to produce, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. Maintaining thermal and acoustic comfort in offshore environments is challenging, but suitable habitable spaces and working spaces positively impact safety, productivity, health and well-being of the workers. Thermal and acoustic comfort of habitable spaces and working spaces is a multidimensional issue that requires a holistic approach. In this sense the Project may contribute to cross-sectoral and cross-regional cooperation. The Project approach offers an innovative solution to address sustainability and energy efficiency challenges in offshore insulation applications, providing a more versatile, widely applicable and environmentally-friendly solution.
BLUEFLOW
Promoter: VULKAN ENGINEERING AS
Country: Norway
“By controlling the use of chemicals, our solution can help mitigate negative environmental impacts and improve the efficiency and sustainability of your operations.”
Detecting inadequate chemical levels is simple, but detecting excessive amounts is challenging as the ultimate aim of water treatment is to attain a particular quality level, and surpassing that level with excess chemicals is unnecessary yet can still meet the target quality, which is a problem common to all industries employing chemicals for water treatment.
In the Oil & Gas business, seawater is injected into wells to increase the recovery rate of oil and gas fields. Before the seawater can be injected, particles, sulphate, and oxygen need to be removed to avoid degrading the equipment and reservoir. The traditional process to do this requires the use of several chemicals that are harmful to the environment, and a significant portion is released directly into the sea.
Our project idea and Innovation utilizes our domain expertise in sea water treatment to develop models and algorithms that continuously monitor and suggest dosage rates for the chemicals used. By adjusting the recommendations based on feedback from key performance indicators (KPIs) developed specifically for these systems, our solution ensures that the system is operating at optimal levels at all times. This results in reduced emissions, costs, and negative environmental impacts from over-dosing of chemicals. Our approach addresses the challenge of variability in system requirements caused by factors such as flow rates, temperature, and seasonal changes. This variability often leads to conservative dosage rates being set during project/commissioning, which can result in unnecessarily high injection of harmful chemicals.
AI EMPOWERED WATER QUALITY EARLY WARNING SYSTEM FROM WATERSON
Promoter: Waterson Technologies SIA
Country: Latvia
The Waterson technology offers a real-time, AI-empowered water quality monitoring and early warning system that can detect contamination events in water, indicating conditions for biological contamination risks. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the aquaculture industry by providing continuous testing of flowing water, reducing the financial burden on aquaculture companies, and substantially reducing the potential impact on fish health, which is crucial for the industry’s sustainability. The compatibility of Waterson’s technology with sensors from different manufacturers can make it adaptable for different aquaculture industry environments, such as inland and offshore fish farming. The development of this technology progressed through various Technology Readiness Levels, from TRL1, where literature studies were conducted, to TRL5, where the technology was validated in an artificial environment. Our planned activities include identifying specific sensor types and manufacturers, evaluating the suitability of current sensors, designing and assembling a new prototype, collecting experimental data, developing anomaly algorithms, evaluating readings, enhancing algorithm operations, and testing them in a relevant environment.
(NO)VEL (M)EMBRANE TECHNOLOGY AND WASTE HEAT RECOVERY FOR (A)PPLICATION TO (D)ESALINATION FOR ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY AND FUTURE HYDROGEN PRODUCTION
Promoter: Waterwhelm Ltd
Country: United Kingdom
Waterwhelm uses the waste heat produced during wastewater treatment and other industrial processes to produce potable water for use, re-use, or export. Waterwhelm technology has been validated through our pilot plant at major Wastewater Treatment Works in Edinburgh over a 3.5 year period. Final effluent, that would be released into the Firth of Forth estuary, can be re-used by the site for wastewater treatment, reducing electricity consumption by 80% and CAPEX by 35% in comparison to competing technologies. This would realise a reduction in CO2 emissions by 382 tonnes per year at a major wastewater treatment works sites.
The Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) technique of seawater injection can be more effective by using low salinity water instead of seawater. Waterwhelm intend to transfer its waste heat to potable water technology, to the offshore Oil and Gas sector to support EOR and the Blue Economy. Waterwhelm technology can be applied to desalination for re-purposed offshore Oil and Gas sites for hydrogen production, where unused waste heat is produced, and supply of fresh water is needed for the process.
The main objective of this project are:
1. To undertake a feasibility study pertaining to Waterwhelm waste heat for desalination application to offshore Oil and Gas sites for EOR and for re-purposed offshore sites for hydrogen production.
2. To modify Waterwhelm’s existing pilot plant at the wastewater treatment site in Seafield to undertake desalination tests specifically for those prospective Oil and Gas sites.
3. To demonstrate Waterwhelm’s technology, and its potential, to customers in the Oil and Gas sector, and to other renewable and production infrastructures in the Oil and Gas sector.
4. To increase Awareness of waste heat utilisation for desalination, develop Interest in the technology, to determine the Desire for adoption in the new market, and produce an Action plan for exploratory development.
AMMONIA RELEASE MITIGATION SYSTEM
Promoter: Wavelength Technology Center Lda.
Country: Portugal
The use of green ammonia as marine fuel has the potential to be one of the paths to enable the decarbonization at scale of deep sea shipping.
Even though no major technological breakthroughs are needed to deploy this solution, some technological advances are still needed before we see the widespread use of ammonia fuel in shipping, especially with regards to marine engine developments and safety on board.
Wavelength is developing a passive safety system to reduce the risks associated with handling ammonia on board a ship. Our solution is a system to be installed in the ventilation of rooms where equipment handling ammonia are located. This system has the ability to capture potential ammonia fugitive emissions, leaks or releases from pressure relief valves before these vapours reach the environment.
The ammonia emissions capture system can be regenerated on site once saturated with ammonia and used continuously. The captured ammonia can be recovered from the filter packing and drained back to the ammonia fuel tank during the regeneration cycle. The proposed system will allow the recovered ammonia to be reused as fuel, which is also another major aspect of a circular economy for marine fuels, apart from eliminating waste and recovery.
LOCATION OPTIMISATION OF OFFSHORE PLATFORM WIND
Promoter: WUNDEROCEAN LdA
Country: Portugal
LOOP Wind – Location Optimization for Offshore Platforms – consists of an innovative AI predictive software platform, based in Machine Learning which seeks to optimize the location of offshore turbine platforms, reducing costs and time to wind energy promotors and wind farms.
The main goal of the project is to offer a new solution, to reduce the LCoE below 0,098 €/kWh by 2025 and 0,08 €/kWh by 2030, which will contribute even more for the attractiveness and efficiency of the offshore market to blue growth investors.
The project is promoted by LOOPWIND, a Portuguese startup and a spinoff of Wunderocean in collaboration with two research institutes, NORCE – Norwegian Research Centre and ARDITI – Agência Regional para o Desenvolvimento da Investigação, Tecnologia e Inovação-Portugal (Madeira).
It will finance initiatives for business growth in startup enterprises to develop, apply and commercialize innovative products and technologies, encourage cooperation between research institutions and start-ups to facilitate commercialization of innovative ideas, products and processes and enhance cooperation between Portuguese entities and Norwegian entity.
The main mission of LOOP Wind is to optimize the location and design of floating offshore wind platforms and decrease the CAPEX and DEVEX of wind companies during the installation of the floating platforms. The target are the main companies developing wind offshore projects in the wind offshore area, a sector with a market value of 2 billion USD per year in Portugal and Spain. This is expected to grow every year with the current trends favouring the wind offshore industry. Such companies are Equinor, Iberdrola, TotalEnergies etc.
We will target local governments as well to help them growing their offshore and industry.
We believe LOOP Wind is innovative and that it will be a very successful endeavour as there is no such product or similar solution available in the market. The main innovation we can refer is the use of Machine Learning to predict the optimized location of the floating platform, to assure the best design and the optimal cost of installation.
The project will count with the valuable collaboration of two R&D institutions: from ARDITI from Portugal (Madeira), from Norway- NORCE.
1st CALL
GreenOffshoreTech 3-Phase Accelerator Programme (CALL#1):
• PHASE 1, IDEA MATURATION: TOP 28 ranked SMEs projects have received a
lump sum of €5,000 per project for developing a sound Initial Business Plan.
• PHASE 2, IDEA VALIDATION: TOP 23 ranked SMEs projects of PHASE 1 have
received in addition a lump sum of €45,000 per project for developing a
Prototype to validate the project idea.
• PHASE 3: GROWTH: BEST 13 SMEs projects of TOP 23 winner projects of
PHASE 2 have receivedin addition a lump sum of €10,000 per project for activities
related to Promotion and Exploitation of project results
#MeetTheWinners:
Get to know our winner SMEs projects from the 1st Call!
The duration of the SME innovation project is 11 months from 01/10/2022
Awarded on the 5th of September 2022
LIGHTWEIGHT SHIP PLANKS WITH MICRO-STRUCTURED RIPLETS (SHARKSKIN)
Promoter: Cubical GmbH
Country: Germany
The project aims at developing new types of bulb profiles for shipbuilding that reduce the weight of the respective vessel. Micro-structured panels are hereby laminated to the hull plates, which improve water flow resistance and at the same time are characterized by good antifouling properties.
By joining the panels, the hull plates can be considerably thinned, which leads to further weight savings. The bulb profiles under consideration are highly complex in terms of their geometry. They are three-dimensionally printed in a novel continuous process with hollow chambers and then sintered in Conti furnaces to a very wear resistant metallic alloy. The panels are manufactured using the same process.
The hot-rolled steel profiles commonly used today are comparatively heavy. The bulb profiles under consideration, on the other hand, consist of functionally graded cellular structures optimized for shipbuilding – which leads to weight saving of up to 75 percent. Panels with a one-sided microstructure – so-called riplets – are applied to the outside of the hull panels. Riplets imitate the flow resistance characteristics of a fast-swimming shark.
They can be thought of as a multitude of tiny spoilers that reduce the frictional resistance on turbulently overflown surfaces. The friction of the ship’s hull in seawater can thus be reduced by 8 to 10 percent. Riplets also offer a second advantage: their sharp-edged tips are highly effective against biofouling.
The prevention of adhesion under water thus achieved corresponds to the effect of those highly toxic biocides (TBT) that have been banned internationally since 2008. Compared to the less effective, but legally approved antifouling coatings available today, the riplets furthermore reduce docking intervals.
TRACKING SYSTEM FOR PORT AUTOMATION (CTS4PA)
Promoter: PERPROT
Country: Poland
The complexity of port terminal operations and intermodal trans-shipments has prompted the introduction of information and communication technologies to assist the many stakeholders involved in the decision-making processes. Containers are managed by heavy machinery equipment like Rubber Tired Gantry cranes, Rail Mounted Gantry Cranes, or Ship-To-Shore Cranes.
However, they always require the intervention of on-board operators and on-site clerks, who interact with each other by various means and signals, including information sources required to handle and deliver freight. The application of internet of things technology to port logistics will help to improve port resource utilization and productivity and, in this way, make them more “green”.
Therefore, we made the decision to develop a system for real-time tracking of containers, quayside cranes and rubber gantry cranes and workers at the container port. The problem was solved with a wireless sensor network. The system is designed to optimize, manage, and monitor container transport operations.
RENAPURE HIGH-CAPACITY PRODUCED WATER TREATMENT UNIT (RP-HCPWTU)
Promoter: Rena Quality Group AS
Country: Norway
Tuning the produced oil in water discharge from >30ppm to Rena Quality Group has already developed and patented a ceramic membrane treatment unit for slop water (wastewater generated topside on drilling rigs, typical water contaminated with oil-based drilling fluids etc). These units have a capacity limitation from 2,5-20m3/h.
This is state of the art molecular separation units compared to traditional technology which is currently used on produced water (water phase that comes up from the drilled well together with the produced oil). Currently the OSPAR (Oslo Paris convention) states that treated discharged water should contain below 30ppm oil in water. Current technologies used for produced water are normally struggling to reach this goal, at least for all their produced water.
We have installed Slop units on 2 FPSOs (Floating production, storage, and offloading unit) where we are treating slop water mixed with reject water (produced water which the installed equipment couldn’t bring down below the discharge limit) and our oil in water discharge is close to impossible to measure, typical around 1ppm.
Our goal for this project is to design a compact, modular ceramic membrane unit that can discharge up to 300m3/h produced water with less than 5ppm oil in water (guaranteed).
PORTABLE REAL TIME MOTION MONITORING SYSTEM (PORTIMOMS)
Promoter: Miko Innovasjon AS
Country: Norway
Miko Innovasjon AS initiated in 2020 the project “Real time monitoring of relative motions during marine operations”. The market for a more effective and safe offshore lift operation was explored. The project was partly funded by “Innovasjon Norge” and significant interest was confirmed. In Offshore Wind projects, the size of the turbines increases continuously. When lifting heavy and voluminous elements high above sea-level and onto another floating structure challenges related to relative – and “coupled” motions” between the crane-vessel, the load and its landing platform arise.
Today, – these complex marine lift operations are planned, engineered, calculated, and approved years in advance. The calculations include safety factors to allow and compensate for uncertainties and assumptions related to vessel responses and other physical assumptions. Operational weather criteria are to be agreed upon and are used as limitations for the operation. Cross sector potential lies in offshore wind energy, offshore oil and gas and waterborne transport. What one is really looking for is an acceptable and predefined motion limitation.
Typically, these limitations are given by the turbine manufacturer, – as max displacement, velocity, and acceleration limits. By developing a new transportable lift control system, – using camera / laser technology, (alternatively MRU’s and GPS) – a precise and in real time picture of these motions is displayed to assist and guide the operational managers during the operation.
The actual motions are – in real time-, clearly displayed on a screen allowing a controlled operation “live” and “in-fact” extend the otherwise limited operational window as well as increasing safety by reducing uncertainties and assumptions. The system will be transportable, easy to install for each lifting operation and will focus on user friendliness for onsite decision making.
AUTOMATED ASBESTOS MONITORING & DETECTION (VERIFIBRE)
Promoter: Ethos Environmental Ltd
Country: United Kingdom
Air monitoring for asbestos fibres is a safety-critical activity that currently requires to be undertaken by a trained specialist and is therefore a slow and expensive process. The cost and time delays means that this service is not utilised as often as it could be in order to evaluate risk around disturbance (planned or accidental) of asbestos-containing materials.
This is a particular challenge for the North Sea oil & gas sector – particularly with onset of decommissioning – and the maritime sector (which has huge asbestos challenges). We have 26 years’ experience in these sectors. But the challenge is also felt onshore, where the costs of the human-driven current method mean that this crucial microscopy test (for what is otherwise invisible to the naked eye) is not undertaken unless legally mandated.
We are developing a machine learning algorithm that can match the performance of the human analyst. We have incorporated this into demonstrator-level hardware (TRL 5) that automates the air sampling and sample processing/imaging, enabling the non-specialist user (eg building manager, construction site manager, safety manager etc) to undertake this test without compromising or corrupting measurement integrity.
The technique shows potential to also improve sensitivity over the existing technique by 1-2 orders of magnitude. This is particularly timely given current growing concern over low-level asbestos “environmental” exposure. With a huge NetZero-driven building retrofit programme imminent, the EU parliament is due to discuss tightening regulatory standards for asbestos fibres in air (REF). Currently such performance can only be achieved by electron microscopy (which is more expensive and time-consuming still).
We are looking to advance the performance of the prototype from current TRL5 to TRL 6 within the scope of this project allowing us to then start engaging and trialling with interested parties (oil & gas, marine contractors etc initially).
This will deliver genuine health & safety benefits for workers and has huge cross-over potential from offshore and shipping origins to all parts of the built environment.
COMPOSITE SUCTION CAISSON FOR MOORING SYSTEMS (COMPCAN)
Promoter: Compocean AS
Country: Norway
A lightweight suction caisson made of composite materials. This product can save much weight of bottom fixed subsea structures and mooring systems for subsea installation for offshore oil and gas, offshore wind power plants and fish farming cages, enabling significant installation cost saving and reduction of environmental footprint.
SMART CHARGING PLATFORM FOR FLEXIBLE MODULAR WATERBORNE TRANSPORT (SCUWS)
Promoter: MHTech AS
Country: Norway
MHTech AS will together with Hydrolift Smart City Ferries AS (HYKE) establish this project with the aim of leveraging the combined competence and experience of the companies to create a tool for customizing and optimizing charging of autonomous electric urban water shuttles. Smart charging of vessels will be vital to optimize energy efficiency, battery life, transport efficiency, weather conditions and route planning.
Smart charging of urban water shuttles as described above requires information about the current status and conditions but also needs to be supplemented by predictions of future route steps, future weather conditions and development in charging status, energy consumption etc..
Machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence used on harvested real-world data will be an enabling technology and a basis for the smart charging platform.
TOOL TO SELECT OPTIMAL AND MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY DRILLING FLUID FOR DRILLING OF EXPLORATION-, PRODUCTION-, P&A-, AND GEOTHERMAL WELLS (MUDSIM)
Promoter: Mudsim AS
Country: Norway
Planning and implementation of drilling operations has undergone extensive digitization. One area, that is causing 80% of total emission during drilling, is forgotten. It is to develop a digital tool that makes it possible to choose an efficient and more environmentally friendly drilling fluid, with a significantly smaller CO2 footprint during production and use.
Available experience data, geological knowledge (pore pressure plot) and the wellbore together with professional knowledge are used to develop algorithms and can thus simulate and plan optimal drilling fluid. This simulation can be used for drilling exploration and production wells, geothermal wells and for operations within Plug and Abandonment (P&A). With input from more advanced and environmental friendly drilling fluids we will be able to verify and promote environment rather than traditional fluids with traditional emissions.
We have designed a MVP solution and received feedback from the market. From now we need to improve and adjust the algorithms and technical solutions and do it together with potential customers and development institutions and drilling fluid experts to continue marketing and promotion of this digital simulation tool.
Target is to make it possible to reduce the CO2 footprint with 20% from drilling fluids and 5% more effective drilling.
IMPROVING THE INSTALLATION OF OFFSHORE WIND TURBINE FOUNDATIONS (IIOWTF)
Promoter: Napkin Innovation Ltd
Country: United Kingdom
Napkin Innovation’s solution for a mechanical alternative to grout, designed for offshore wind turbine foundations, won an open innovation challenge sponsored by wind developer, ScottishPower Renewables.
By working across sectors the Napkin team are developing a prototype for their mechanical alternative to grout, a solution with the potential to make offshore production clean, green, and sustainable by reducing installation times, costs, and CO2 emissions, while supporting the deployment of offshore wind and making a positive contribution to Net Zero targets.
THE FAT MANAGER (TFM)
Promoter: Happy Fish SIA
Country: Latvia
Happy Fish has created bio based surfactants with high bio carbon content (90-95%) and bio degradability of just 10 days, hereinafter – the Fat Manager. Fat Manager is an environmentally friendly and proactive solution that cleans the drainage system of clogged grease, prevents further clogging, helps to avoid disruptions in production processes, prevents fat from sticking together, making it easier to collect from the grease trap, does not damage the piping system and aquatic ecosystem.
One the industry where the Product can be used is fish processing plants where the fish fats are significant challenge because of fish oil caused clogs un sewer pipes and wells and afterwards this waste is discharged into the local municipal sewer system and the local environment suffers from odour nuisances.
By using the Product, the amount of environmentally harmful chemicals in waste can be reduced and it improves wastewater quality. Now the Product consists of the cleaning agent and dosing pump created by Happy Fish. The Product process is the following: the Product is pumped from the canister then the cleaning agent is discharged to the sewer system, and then cleaning agent travels further into sewage system with running water.
It is identified that the Product can be developed further by using IT solutions. The timer which is linked to the pump can be digitalised therefore improving the Product by adjusting the Product dosage system to individual clients’ needs and facilitates easier installation process, therefore significantly improves the Product lifecycle process.
Now the timer is manually installed and requires additional space in electrical sockets which is not always available nearby to the customers’ sewage systems. The Project can help to improve the Product efficiency by reducing material consumption.
Project objectives are as follows:
- Identified technical needs for technical specification and budget;
- Developed IT solution for the timer, tested in full scope providing validation of the developed technology;
- Introduced communication with the expert in the relevant (fish industry) field and received feedback;
- Promote the digitalised product to wider export market participants.
Cross-sectoral aspect can be seen by using the Product in sector Aquaculture and Waterborne Transport because the Project outcome will improve aquaculture but it can improve also Waterborne transport sector.
By the Project outcome, we believe we can meet the following challenges of Offshore Aquaculture such us reduce fish loss through chemical pollutants by improving wastewater quality, improve environmental sustainability through reduction of fish escape and water pollution.
SEIDR.AI – BREAK THROUGH SIMULATION TOOL FOR THE USE OF WATER BORNE ENERGY CARRIERS (SEIDR.AI)
Promoter: Seidr.AI AS
Country: Norway
Seidr.ai (Seidr) was established in January 2022 with the purpose of providing data-driven decisions for green investments in the offshore and sea-based transportation industry.
The idea behind Seidr is to eliminate the uncertainty in green investments by enabling simulations of technology use in a long-time span, employing digital twinning and artificial intelligence. Seidr supports decision makers across the offshore industrial sectors with data-driven decisions for the use of e.g., battery-powered, or other green powered vessels in relation to initial cost, lifespan CO2 emissions profile, energy requirements and return on the investment.
With Seidr, project managers, C-level executives, and other company bodies such as ESG compliance managers will be equipped with quantifiable simulated information helping them reach lower emissions profile while balancing the investment and energy requirements.
The outcome solution will be at hand across the industrial sectors, including offshore wind installation providers, sea-borne transportation companies for aquaculture and oil and gas transport operators, enabling informed decisions about planned installations, maintenance, and servicing – all in relation to CO2 profiles, energy, and cost factors.
OFFSHORE WIND TURBINE BLADE INTERNAL INSPECTION ROBOTIC SYSTEM (OFFSHOREIIN)
Promoter: Aerones Engineering SIA
Country: Latvia
The wind turbine market is growing rapidly and will remain a key renewable energy option in the coming decades. It is encouraged by following: the growing global energy demand; decline of average installed costs for offshore wind turbines; and the zero-pollution emission goal legitimated in EU Green Deal.
Currently offshore wind turbine maintenance services are provided by technicians manually. Every turbine is stopped for about 5 hours and all this time large vessels are involved. As a result O&M service is time and resource expensive, and produces significant amounts of CO2 emissions. Aerones already has developed internal inspection robot for onshore wind turbine maintenance, that is not suitable for challenges in offshore environment.
The project solves problem of offshore wind turbine blade manual, inefficient maintenance, by implementing robotics, sensor and IoT technologies. Aerones already works on digitalization of the wind turbine maintenance, by robotization and IoT technologies.
With this project there will be introduced application of wind turbine blade internal inspection by robot in offshore environment using higher capacity data acquisition technologies and highspeed satellite internet.
3DCP – 3D CATHODIC PROTECTION (3DCP)
Promoter: SubWorks Ltd
Country: United Kingdom
Underwater asset integrity of blue economy structures is critical to ensure production uptime, availability, personnel safety and reduced environmental impacts. Identifying areas of low integrity and high-risk areas for structural failure, leaks to the environment and integrity concerns is a fundamental of responsible asset management.
However, the analysis and presentation of this data is severely limited and often forms part of a written report, resulting in poor presentation of the data gathered. This subsequently leads to incorrect data analysis and lack of understanding of the structural integrity status of offshore structures.
The objective of this project is to create a Minimal Viable Product of our innovation – the 3D-Integrity system, a technical solution which will allow for data visualisation of current, past and future integrity levels through the combination of visual data and integrity data – coalesced with modern computer science techniques.
The 3D-Integrity system provides a complete visualisation of vital integrity data to assist asset owner/operators with safety, integrity and business decision making. Instead of manual and time-consuming review of real time video, the automated system will provide improved interpretation of this available data and assist asset owners and operators with effective integrity management of offshore structures, saving them time and improving data accuracy.
This provides offshore clients with the ability to visualise, interpret and correctly understand the condition of offshore structures and provides them with vital asset integrity management of structures throughout the asset’s life cycle – from installation to decommissioning and everything in-between.
The direct impact of this will be an increase in resource efficiency through a reduction of total energy usage, accuracy of asset integrity, increase in energy efficiency, reduction in waste (living and non-living), and a reduction in raw material usage (e.g., natural resources, water, minerals) to support the circular blue economy business model.
DEVELOPMENT OF A METHOD OF FILTRATION OF SEA AND INLAND WATER WITH USE OF GLASS FIBERS FROM USED WIND BLADES (DMF-SEA BLADES)
Promoter: Elektrorecykling S.A.,
Country: Poland
The subject of the project is research aimed at verifying the possibility of using the method described in patent application P.440423 (under the name Method and device for the production of a semi-permeable substance thar absorbs toxins form water and air) for the production of filter plates using recycled glass fiber from used blades from offshore wind farms, allowing to reduce the amount of waste generated and increase the recovery of raw materials.
AUTONOMOUS GANGWAY LANDING (AGWL)
Promoter: Voca AS
Country: Norway
The objective of the project “Autonomous Gangway Landing” is to develop a system that allows for a safe and soft landing of a gangway from a service vessel onto a fixed or floating installation. Gangways and “Walk to Work” concepts are key initiatives in achieving the goal of greener and safer transportation of people to offshore locations, such as windmills, oil and gas platforms and fish farms.
During harsh weather conditions, landing the gangway at the landing platform is a challenging operation which requires highly skilled gangway drivers. Incidents may happen if the gangway does not hit the landing platform correctly1 . Human errors may occur when deciding if the weather conditions are acceptable or too demanding, however the computer system will use exact measurements to decide when conditions are safe.
Rather than manual operations, auto-functions will secure the quality of the operations, making sure the most optimum landing is achieved every single time. This leads to safer and more efficient operations. The goal of the project will be achieved by using state of the art Computer Vision (CV) technology to perceive the surroundings and calculate the direction and distance to the landing target. The key to the solution is the non-contact measurement sensor, that can measure the exact distance and direction to the target at a fixed structure, in a robust manner.
Even if the target location is partially occluded due to harsh weather (heavy rain, snow, hail, fog, sea spray), the measurement can still be calculated. The same sensor technology can be used to make a full autonomous gangway, and a full autonomous crane (onshore or offshore).
PRODUCE MARINE OILS IN COMBINATION WITH HYDROGEN
Promoter: Marine Cluster AS
Country: Norway
The Marine Cluster id a “Green Project” within the circular economy. The goal is to produce marine oils in combination with hydrogen, where utilizing all the process streams in a sustainable and circular economy.
By combining Oxy-fuel energy plants and algae production, we get a unique solution that utilizes by-products from both processes to very valuable additives in each other’s processes. This gives an efficient and elegant solution to for the use of all CO2 from the energy plant and the return of O2 form the algae plant to the combustion process. The process is in a closed system and has no emissions.
HIGH ALTITUDE MARITIME OBSERVATION SYSTEM (HAMOS)
Promoter: Cloudless sp
Country: Poland
Cloudless High Altitude Maritime Observation System (HAMOS) is an innovative way to have large-scale and high-quality offshore imaging. Our innovative UAV (unmanned air vehicle) will be launched into the stratosphere with a balloon (up to 25 000 meters). When released, it will glide to destination and use an electric propulsion to carry out its planned mission of remote sensing (at altitudes 8 000 – 15 000 meters).
The aim of this project is to provide valuable data that will be competitive in terms of quality and delivery time compared to satellite technology and low-flying drones. HAMOS will support aquaculture, oil and gas monitoring as well as sea transport, especially in crisis situations. The unmanned nature of the mission, long range and high altitude will not affect rescue operations.
The operations of the system will be carbon neutral thanks to the use of solar cells and an electric drive. High altitude flight will also not disturb the natural environment.
UNMANNED SAILING OFFSHORE SERVICE PLATFORM - A POWER BANK ON THE OPEN OCEAN (USOSP)
Promoter: Vane Ocean Technologies AS
Country: Norway
This project will enable technology that can greatly reduce the environmental footprint of the offshore industry. An autonomous sailing vessel with capabilities that will be able to solve complex offshore operations for several offshore use-cases. By leveraging an innovative passive control system with solar and wind-energy, we are augmenting the capabilities of drone technology.
This unique ability to generate surplus energy explains how this drone can perform complex operations in complex offshore wind, offshore aquaculture operations or the oil & gas companies. By providing green energy far out in the maritime space, and in unlimited operational timeframe – VOT in this project augment the capabilities previously only seen in traditional maritime industry. The competitive edge is that these operations can be done at a much lower cost than traditional maritime vessels.
Traditional offshore operations need extensive manpower and the use of fossil fuel that pollute air and sea – and carries a considerable carbon-footprint. Small autonomous vessels are in line with EU ambitions to move towards an increased sustainable economy. They do not pollute the environment, they do not disturb maritime life like traditional fossil ships do, and they can harvest data or perform complex operations from the high seas at a much lower cost than traditional maritime vessels.
With sufficient resources based on the funding this grant represent, VOT will be able to achieve TRL level 6. This will be made possible through iterative testing and improvement of the product in close dialogue with relevant stakeholders.
FUEL EFFICIENT VESSEL SPEED OPTIMIZATION; REDUCING FUEL CONSUMPTION AND CO2 EMISSIONS IN THE OPERATION OF PLANING VESSELS. (IMAS-FESG)
Promoter: Hefring ehf.
Country: Iceland
Hefring ehf. is a technology company based in Iceland that specializes in the development of digital guidance and monitoring solutions to augment planing vessel operation. Planing vessels are designed to actually rise up and ride on top of the water when power is applied.
They require considerably more horsepower to get the boat up but they can attain much higher speeds from the reduced friction of moving on top of the water rather than through the water. The company’s core product, Hefring Marine, helps to ensure that planning vessels are operated in a safe and efficient operational envelope.
The solution uses intelligent proprietary methods to generate real-time speed guidance optimized for safety, impact reduction, comfort, and fuel efficiency. The system automatically varies its guidance to reflect prevailing conditions, actual speed and vessel motions. The solution helps to ensure duty of care, reduce human errors, improve safety and operator behaviour, aid training and personnel development, and reduce costs related to fuel consumption and vessel lifecycle costs.
All data is recorded to and presented in a fleet management desktop portal that provides insightful analysis into each trip, vessel and operator and saves a log of all historical trips. The proposed project is to develop a new system, to be integrated into the current solution, which provides vessel operators with a real-time fuel optimization speed in order to reduce fuel consumption and reduce CO2 emissions.
Initial analysis of the fuel optimization speed indicates an average fuel savings of 20% which results in approximately 2.7kg/ltr of fuel reduction in CO2 emissions.
This solution will boost economic and environmental sustainability in waterborne transport.
VIRTUAL REALITY TRAINING (VRT)
Promoter: Inwesta
Country: Poland
Waterborne transportation is nowadays crucial supply chain in the global economy. Everyone realizes that without highly developed transport, the world economy cannot function. Each small aspect of the process which could be optimized can generate huge savings for companies and final recipient.
What is more, work with the transport of a huge number of containers and reloading services requires high precision and appropriate training. Meeting the current needs and taking into account the continuous development of the maritime transport sector we propose the solution of virtual training for people involved in the process.
The objective of the project is to prepare the virtual infrastructure for workers’ training who are responsible for operating machines of waterborne transport. In cooperation with our partners from the sector of software, extended reality and human-machine interfaces we would like to prepare and develop a comprehensive training in the field of reach stacker for loading containers.
The provided outcome would the software and hardware with work scenario which would be used by contracted new employees. This solution would help companies working with waterborne transportation to reduce consumption of resources and money as well as increase the safety of workers.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY RECOVERY (SER)
Promoter: Enerin AS
Country: Norway
This project aims at building a pilot plant for demonstrating energy recovery in the process of regasifying LNG. Gasnor wants to test this technology in an existing plant. The project involves retrofitting with the equipment needed to make the pilot plant. The idea is as follows: Wherever a temperature difference is present, it is possible to harness this difference to create mechanical work. When LNG is evaporated, such a difference exists, between liquid LNG at -160 Centigrade and ambient temperature, in Norway somewhere in the range 0 to 30 Centigrade. LNG must be evaporated to be used as a fuel.
Today, the potential for producing work from the evaporation process itself is not harnessed. The present project shall demonstrate the feasibility, both technologically and economically, of harnessing this temperature difference.
The intended market for technology developed and verified in the project is consumers and distributors of LNG. Gasnor is an example of a targeted company, and an end user of the technology.
ACOUSTIC BARRIER FOR MARINE ANIMAL PROTECTION (AB4MAP)
Promoter: Pulcea Ltd
Country: United Kingdom
Our proposed Acoustic Barrier for Marine Animal Protection (AB4MAP) project utilises the recent discovery we unexpectedly made during our aquaculture research programme. This discovery has been disclosed to our patent attorneys and the patent application process is underway.
AB4MAP will start by identifying those marine markets which would benefit from significant and cost-effective reductions in transmitted noise e.g., the installation phase of marine wind turbines. Having identified these markets, AB4MAP will verify the cost of existing acoustic transmission mitigations, their effectiveness at various sound frequencies, and the protection given to the different species of marine animal, with particular emphasis on European Protected Species (EPS) such as the harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena.
Having identified those activities being undertaken in the marine environment which produce potential harmful acoustic sound sources, AB4MAP will then model the increase in EPS protection which such an improved acoustic barrier provides. This will identify probable development costs together with potential licence income and thereby produce the information we require to create the business model which is needed to progress beyond the current TRL4 level via small scale prototype testing in the field and onto proof of concept.
This is a new market sector for Pulcea, and a key part of AB4MAP is to search for an appropriate international commercial partner(s) to licence our technology.
SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE CARE AND MAINTENANCE (SAC-CAM)
Promoter: Framework Robotics GmbH
Country: Germany
Climate change and the simultaneously increasing global demand for food require innovative solutions for the sustainable use of marine resources. Among other things, this requires resource-conserving and sustainable aquaculture systems. With the help of AI-supported sensor systems in combination with a remote-controlled system to prevent biofouling, the conditions in aquaculture facilities and the health of farmed fish can be better monitored and regulated.
The planned system reduces the operating costs of aquaculture facilities by up to 40 % and significantly increases water quality, leading to better fish health and higher profitability. Aquaculture operators take high financial risks and usually achieve low profit margins. Losses due to disease, injury or predation further reduce yields.
This system can reduce fish losses due to disease and lower maintenance costs. It can thus contribute to meeting the increasing demand for food while conserving resources and protecting the environment. The collection and processing of high-resolution sensor data and its translation into object recognition and classification of fish in mariculture facilities is an important contribution to the modernization of the maritime food industry.
The collection of data from the environment and also from aquaculture facilities, as well as its analysis, is in itself a product and a related service that will be increasingly in demand worldwide in the future. Data as a Service (DaaS) is a service sector that is already developing well in the maritime industry. In the future, the market value of marine resources, especially farmed fish, will increasingly depend on the data collected and analyzed worldwide.
Currently, several thousand systems are already in operation worldwide and the market is growing at a fast pace. The current market potential worldwide can be estimated at around 250 million euros for monitoring systems alone.
SHORE BASED INSPECTION DRONE (SBID)
Promoter: Shore B.V
Country: Netherlands
The offshore wind sector is undergoing tremendous growth. In the Netherlands alone, the goal is to increase capacity by 740 percent by 2030. Parallel to this increase, the logistics of inspection and maintenance contractor (I&M contractor) of offshore wind farms will also grow.
Currently, crew transfer vessels (CTVs) sail to the wind farms. Here, inspections of, for example, turbine blades are performed with rope access or drones. The CTVs generate high CO2 emissions and staff also experience safety risks by carrying out inspections at dangerous locations. With the steadily growing market, this will continue to increase.
Our mission at shore is to reduce the risk for the inspection and maintenance (I&M) companies and drone operators. We want to eliminate the dependency on boat charters and meanwhile stay close to the current methods of inspection. We do this by developing a system – the Shore Based Inspection Drone (SBID) – that can perform inspections from the coast due to its long range.
This results in reducing the pressure on the logistics of I&M operations. It will also provide a large reduction in CO2 emissions and eliminate safety risks for offshore personnel. During the GreenOffshoreTech project, the minimum viable product will be produced.
Furthermore, a pilot with a partner in the offshore inspection and maintenance sector will be executed. After the project, a better understanding of the technology, procedures and industry is gained.
This allows Shore Systems to move a step further in its mission of creating a sustainable and highly efficient inspection drone.
SUSTAINABILITY DASHBOARD (TPGDSD)
Promoter: TECHPROS AS
Country:Norway
Gateway proposes an innovative Sustainability Dashboard platform to capture the carbon emission along the supply chain of an Offshore aquaculture business.
This platform will be used for capture of CO2 emissions and analysis of carbon hotspots for different players in the supply chain. Based on the data captured and analysed, relevant insights and recommendations can be presented to businesses, to ensure that all parts of the supply chain provide required services to the businesses while maintaining environment sustainability goals.
The focus of this platform is on the fish-farming/aquaculture industry, and would require integration with the systems and/or sensors to capture CO2 emissions. Integration with relevant industry standard bodies will provide immediate comparison with “acceptable” emission numbers.
Since this will be deployed on The Cloud as a “Software as a Service” application, required integrations will enable businesses from other industries to be enabled on this dashboard.
SHARED EQUIPMENT PORTAL (eSHARE)
Promoter: Codeit AS
Country: Norway
Several industries, especially the offshore oil and gas industry, have over the years spent enormous number of resources and finances to build up large warehouses for operational spares. The reason for this is to secure uptime of proucing assets to secure asset uptime, secure production and revenue.
In order to inter-changeable use of this type of equipment, it is imperative that the full history with documentation and technical data is traceable. The documentation and data must be standardized to feed operation systems like Maintenance, QA, DC and Asset management.
CodeIT have developed eDOC which is already in operational use and manages document workflow without traditional Document control.
eDoc framework will be used to develop eSHARE, a solution for a cross-industry common equipment/material pool.
LIFTING OIL & PLASTIC FROM SEABED USING AIR BUBBLES (LOPFSUAB)
Promoter: PurOceans Technology SIA
Country: Latvia
Project objective is to make PurOceans technology transition from the follis fuel generators to the Solar Energy by the way of implementation of solar panels, directly connected to all electric systems and developPurOceans technology automatization and management system and to test developed experimental complex non-contact flotation, autonomous water cleaning technology for cleaning the bottom of reservoirs from oil and oil products.
The aim of the project is to develop innovative PurOceans technology to promote technologies competitiveness in the market. Project will be implemented in cooperation with Bergen Robotics partner from Norway. The main objectives of the project are as follows:
- To develop and test green and efficient energy source, generator to ensure green and efficient technology use;
- To develop and test automatization system to ensure smart and safe PurOceans technology use;
PurOceans team has been working with Non-contact flotation, autonomous water cleaning technology for more than 15 years. Technology is at TRL5-6 stage, developed in laboratory scale using diesel and fuel energy systems.
The original laboratory technology has been tested and verified in the relevant environment to demonstrate its performance.
NEXT GEN FUNDAMENT FOR OFFSHORE FLOATING WIND (NG-FFOFW)
Promoter: Bluewind AS
Country: Norway
Blue Wind Innovative solutions for the next generation of offshore floating wind farms.
Background:Offshore wind power is increasing in popularity to harvest stronger and more even wind energy with less acoustics and visual disturbance. However, it is deployed in challenging conditions that require very high costs associated with production, installation and maintenance.
Goal: Making floating offshore wind profitable by developing the next generation of designs for offshore floating wind farms above 12MW, which are economically reasonable to build, install and maintain throughout the project life.
WINDROVER - WIND TURBINE BLADES SMART HEALTH MONITORING SYSTEM
Promoter: Werover GmbH
Country: Germany
Our product addresses specific SDGs aiming at affordable, clean energy, climate action and life on land for the renewable energy industry. Early detection and diagnosis of small blade damages can save drastic costs and improve wind turbine health supporting precautionary approaches to environmental challenges. We will build a tailored solution to address the predictive maintenance demand in the niche market by filling the information gap in the real operation conditions of wind turbine blades by defining new tools of maintenance. Integrated sensors that provide real-time data and their correlation with weather conditions will be very useful for wind renewable energy.
We aim to develop an end-to-end system with novel sensors and acoustic data processing and machine learning algorithms for more effective remote monitoring of wind turbine blades. High-sensitivity & precision sensing of blade characteristics, advanced acoustic data processing and novel ML algorithms will be the critical parts to be developed to detect any possible deterioration to blades at earlier levels.
Integration of sensors in the wind blade allows accurate measures without reduction of aerodynamics or functionalities. Predictive maintenance on wind turbine blades will extend turbine life, reliability, and integrity. An effective predictive maintenance of wind turbines will reduce turbine downtime and operational costs, hence minimizing their energy losses.
