IntelliTug project moves up a gear
Following successful installation of DP system on board the harbour tug PSA Polaris, trials are now being carried out in the Port of Singapore under real-world conditions (Source: Wärtsilä)
Technology group Wärtsilä and PSA Marine, a harbour and terminal towage operator in Singapore, have achieved a breakthrough in their joint IntelliTug project with the installation of a dynamic positioning (DP) system approved by Lloyd’s Register on board the harbour tug PSA Polaris.
The DP system, the first of its kind involving intuitive control of the tug’s manoeuvring, is now undergoing real-life sea trials also overseen and approved by Lloyd’s Register. The project, which is supported by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, is laying the foundation for greater autonomy by enabling intelligent autonomous operation of the vessel during routine operations, leaving tug personnel to focus on more complex tasks as required.
Bernard Wong, head of Fleet Management at PSA Marine, said: “The IntelliTug project is about discovering smarter, safer, and more efficient ways of operating a harbour tug. It incorporates human-centric technology, design thinking, and man–machine collaboration. We are on a journey of turning today’s ideas into tomorrow’s reality.”
