Kongsberg Digital is to deliver a comprehensive upgrade of the simulator training capabilities in the Finnish Aaland University of Applied Sciences.
This large-scale overhaul will update the university’s existing K-Sim Engine simulators to the latest technology and models, while the faculty’s ship’s bridge simulators will be upgraded with new hardware panels and switched over to the latest K-Sim Navigation technology platform.
In addition, to enable advanced training in LNG handling and bunkering procedures, a new vessel model based on a dual fuel passenger ship will be developed as an integrated bridge/engine simulator solution for the K-Sim Engine DEDF 42 model.
The entire upgrade, scheduled for completion in the autumn 2020, is reinforced with a five-year long-term service support programme agreement.
Included in the delivery will be several K-Sim Navigation full mission bridge simulators meeting DNV GL Class A and B certification requirements.
One of the simulators will be integrated with Kongsberg’s dynamic positioning system for DP training. The contract also includes K-Sim Navigation DNV GL Class C desktop bridge simulators incorporating NAV and GMDSS notations; instructor and debriefing systems; and a K-Sim engine full mission and desktop simulator upgrade with four additional student stations, instructor training modules, touch-based main and emergency switchboards and model software simulating operational equipment on a variety of vessels.
Upon commissioning, the university will be capable of offering integrated team training exercises for marine engineers and bridge crew on five different simulated vessel models instructing students on decision-making and leadership, situational awareness, team interaction and crew/ship-to-shore communications.
“We chose Kongsberg Digital to deliver this contract because the company offered the best solution at the best price,” explained Bengt Englund, Vice-Rector, Aaland University of Applied Sciences, “and that combination is unequalled, so it was a logical and beneficial choice. This huge upgrade emphasises our commitment to educate students by using the best and most modern simulation equipment available. It’s a substantial investment, which means that the university will now have a complete range of simulators for study and research purposes.
“Our focus is on team training to strengthen both individual and collective competence, and the five simulated vessel models, with their integration flexibility, will address all of our training requirements,” he said.
