Generations archive

A publication of ABB Marine and Ports 
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2017
2016
2014

2023: Transforming Tomorrow

With this year’s theme, ‘Transforming Tomorrow’, Generations showcases the technological innovations, expertise, and concepts empowering change in shipping and beyond. It also highlights how ABB is drawing on its people, passion, and pedigree to support the transformation the maritime industry needs to succeed in the years and decades to come.

Download Generations 2023 here

Business insight

Oh buoy! Can we sink our big carbon problem?

Business insight

Meeting global climate goals calls not only for reducing emissions, but also for removing carbon we’ve already released into the atmosphere.

Setting sail for a green horizon

Business insight

Sometimes inspiration from the past can help define the future. Jon Tarjei Kråkenes, Head of Orcelle Accelerator, Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Aeolus collaboration offers a compelling path to future-proof yachting

Business insight

In late summer 2022, custom yacht builder Oceanco hosted a roundtable to discuss a revolutionary vessel concept – Aeolus

The value of generative AI for the marine market The value of generative AI for the marine market

Business insight

ABB Marine & Ports experts and partners discuss the emergence of ChatGPT and how Large Language Models (LLMs) can be optimally used in a marine engineering context.

Marine technology thrives on open dialogue with class

Business insight

ABB and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) collaborate towards the common goal of accomodating maritime regulations and the recent developments in marine technologies.

Revolutionizing the shaft generator with powerful permanent magnets

Business insight

Yaskawa Environmental Energy / The Switch knows all about the efficient production of electricity on ships.

Up, up and away with Artemis Technologies

Business insight

Artemis Technologies is looking to take maritime transport to new heights with its ingenious “flying” passenger vessels.

Azipod® propulsion ticks all the boxes in the growing retrofit market

Business insight

ABB’s market leading Azipod® electric propulsion system has become a commercially attractive retrofit option for existing vessels as shipowners seek ways to comply with new emissions regulations.

Centralized fleet support – where digitalization and sustainability meet

Business insight

The industry is now flooded with enterprise management tools targeting different shore roles within shipping companies as well as digital applications at the disposal of masters and crew. 

ForSea sets the pace as decarbonization pioneer

Business insight

Sweden’s ForSea is the largest high-frequency RoPax ferry line in the world utilizing electric power to gain major emissions reductions and other environmental and operational benefits.

Easier container flow for Rio Grande

Business insight

Located in Brazil’s southernmost seaport, Rio Grande Container Terminal has repeatedly demonstrated a forward looking approach to technology since opening its gates in 1997.

Turning the tide of marine pollution

Business insight

Tackling maritime emissions encompasses more than just attempting to keep the air clean and the sky blue – we also need to address what hits the water

ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ continues to set the standard in vessel electrification – 10 years after first installation

Business insight

With the groundbreaking first installation of Onboard DC Grid™ in 2013, ABB became the first company to deliver a direct current (DC)-based onboard power system to an oceangoing vessel. 

Ambitions without borders

Business insight

Captains Without Borders (CWB) is committed to creating equal opportunities for emerging maritime talent 

Technical Insight

Variable speed shaft generator systems – a versatile and cost-efficient way to save energy and reduce emissions

Technical Insight

Shaft generator systems – simply defined as rotation electrical machines that take power from the main propulsion engine to produce electricity

Introducing the FLAGSHIPS Zulu vessel – Paving the way for hydrogen-powered operations on inland waterways

Technical Insight

Hydrogen-related technologies have developed significantly during the past years and are now becoming ready for piloting also in waterborne applications.

Rationale and technical development of the ABB Dynafin™ concept

Technical Insight

Growing concern over climate change has sharply increased the demand for greener solutions in the global shipping industry to limit greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

 
 

2022: Harnessing the power of change

With ‘Harnessing the power of change’ as its theme, in 2022 Generations turns the spotlight on the innovators and experts challenging convention to deliver benefits for commerce, society and the planet. It also highlights ABB’s commitment to making the maritime industry safer, smarter and more sustainable by providing innovative electric, automated and digital solutions and promoting social progress.

Download Generations 2022 here

Business insight

Heart’s desire

Business insight

Heart Aerospace is on a mission to take off with truly sustainable air travel.

Enabling green growth

Business insight

Offshore wind is blowing hot, with extraordinary growth forecast through to 2050.

CO₂llecting potential: from shipping gas to greenhouse growth

Business insight

Rotterdam’s Value Maritime has hit upon what might be seen as a ‘Eureka moment’ for shipping.

SOS – Save Our Sea

Business insight

The John Nurminen Foundation is a champion of the seas, or, to be specific, the Baltic Sea. CEO Annamari Arrakoski-Engardt outlines key issues, ambitions and the desire for collaborative commitment.

THOR: shipping’s new superhero?

Business insight

Shipbuilder and designer Ulstein believes it has a concept capable of facilitating a truly sustainable, zero-emission maritime future.

Protecting the grid, facilitating the future

Business insight

With the increasing adoption of electric vessels, and a growing need for shore power connections

tURN it down!

Business insight

Underwater radiated noise (URN) is a major issue for the environment, and a growing concern for shipowners and operators worldwide.

Juneau plugs into clean air innovation

Business insight

Just over 20 years ago the very first shore power connection for the cruise industry was introduced in Juneau, Alaska.

Architecture, innovation, and sustainability: Q&A with Katrin Foerster

Business insight

ABB’s widely acclaimed ‘Frozen Music’ video series showcases inspirational buildings around the world and the architectural philosophy behind each one.

Up to the challenge of the open ocean

Business insight

Zero-emission vessel ushers in a new era of sustainable ferry transport for Iceland

Building ocean ambitions

Business insight

Grant Romundt, CEO of Ocean Builders, believes we can set sail, permanently, from our homes on land, opting instead for a lifestyle of unlimited freedom, endless adventure, and eco-positive sustainability at sea.

Paving the way to zero-emission cruising

Business insight

Ambitious Norwegian cruise company Northern Xplorer (NX) aims to make a splash with sustainable cruising for thinking travellers.

Deep geothermal energy – red-hot resource for a green planet

Business insight

Ultra-deep wells tap heat from the earth’s core to meet clean energy needs above ground

Breathing new life into an old favorite

Business insight

Lake Maggiore in Italy is one of the most famous and picturesque in the world, and the San Cristoforo ferry has been a highly visible and much loved local fixture for decades.

Stairway to the sun – solar power from space reaching reality

Business insight

Establishing an outpost in space to capture power from the sun and beam it down to earth?

Technical insight

Hydrogen-based shore power system

Technical insight

This article discusses an onshore solution to supply zero-emission electricity on demand to vessels at berth.

Cooperative Vessel Operations enabled through autonomous systems

Technical insight

Research and development being undertaken towards autonomous shipping operations has been a focal point of the maritime community in recent years.

Recent development of icebreaking ship propulsion

Technical insight

Icebreakers have been sailing for some 120 years. At first only slightly more powerful than ordinary commercial vessels.

Fusion powered container vessel concept

Technical insight

Motivated by cost pressure and environmental concerns.

Modeling and HIL simulation of a fuel cell-fed hybrid power and propulsion system

Technical insight

Environmentally driven regulations have had a significant impact on shipping in recent years. The marine industry is required to comply with increasingly strict regulations to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions in order to reach the ambitious IMO target to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping by 50 percent in 2050 compared to 2008.

Hybrid batteries and fuel cells-based vessel power trains: System integration

Technical insight

Maritime transportation contributes nearly three percent of annual carbon-dioxide emissions.

2021: Future focus - towards sustainable success

In the “Future focus” issue of Generations, the two distinct but related opportunities are highlighted: meeting today’s sustainability goals while preparing to fulfill tomorrow’s ambitions for a zero-emission society. Find out how key stakeholders and leading visionaries are addressing these opportunities, applying the best of existing solutions and the most promising future technologies. 

We trust you will find the outlook as inspiring as we do.

Download the full edition as a PDF

Business insight

Business insight

IMO outlook - keeping marine assets safe and secure in the digital age

The wave of digitalization sweeping over the maritime industry carries with it an ever-increasing dependency on cyber solutions. Shipping’s challenge is to maximize the benefits of digitalized operations, while keeping cyber risks to a minimum.

Business insight

Preparing for autonomy – the importance of class guidelines for future autonomous operations

ClassNK’s Corporate Officer Mr. Fujinami, and Manager Mr. Yamada share insights on recently released class guidelines for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS).

Business insight

Where fact and fantasy meet: imagining the future through science fiction

Science fiction is the ideal medium to imagine the future and be able to visualize the consequences, says Dr Helen Klus of Britain’s Royal Astronomical Society. Because it has proven to influence the choices we make, she believes science fiction deserves more attention now than ever.

Business insight

The man from ATLANTIS: driving the offshore wind power transformation

Dr. Andry Maykol Pinto is on a mission to make offshore wind power truly sustainable. He is the Project Coordinator for the EU funded ATLANTIS initiative, which is testing technology with the ability to transform wind farm operation and maintenance – cutting costs, extending operational windows, and safeguarding human life.

Business insight

Charging ahead: New Zealand’s race to zero

For New Zealand, reaching zero emissions is not just a target, it’s a legal commitment. The electrification of the transport sector is key to progress, as Elizabeth Yeaman, a leading authority within the segment, explains.

Business insight

Like minds sparkle on San Diego Bay – at the forefront of tug electrification

With delivery of the first all-electric U.S. tugboat – Crowley’s eWolf – in 2023, the Port of San Diego will realize their vision of a zero-emission workboat, ensuring cleaner air from day one of operations, and taking an important step toward a sustainable future for port residents.

Business insight

The future of hydrogen energy – how does Europe fit into the mix?

Hydrogen is gaining momentum in the global energy transition, but experts agree there is still work to do before technology and legislation line up to provide the necessary support to a global green shift – in Europe and beyond.

Business insight

For Sovcomflot, sustainable shipping starts at home

Sovcomflot is a world leader in the transport of energy in harsh climates, not only by volume, but in their proven record for safe and energy-efficient Arctic operations.

Business insight

Next generation exploration cruise: prioritizing safety and sustainability

Ponant is known for providing their passengers with the highest standard of onboard comfort and luxury in the expedition cruise industry. With the delivery of Le Commandant Charcot polar explorer in 2021, they also have one of the safest and cleanest ships on the water.

Business insight

The green shift in yachting – engaging at a new level

The superyacht industry is being transformed by a new generation of owners as concerned with sustainability as they are with luxury. This shift in priorities is reflected in superyacht pioneers opting for advanced sustainable technologies that are powering increased decarbonization in the broader marine market.

Business insight

Technology, environment and people: Q&A with Captain Kate McCue

The first American female to captain a mega cruise ship, Kate McCue of Celebrity Cruises shares her perspectives on commanding a high-tech vessel, looking after her passengers, and protecting the oceans they sail on.

Business insight

Seeking sustainability, food supplier ASKO looks at all the links

Sustainable food is essential for the future of our planet, and major food wholesaler ASKO is examining every link in their supply chain to further strengthen the environmental credentials of their operations. Renewable energy, autonomous warehouse vehicles and highly automated zero-emission ships all figure into the mix.

Business insight

On course to a sustainable future: diversity and flexibility as keys to success

ABB Marine & Ports gathered maritime industry leaders to discuss how shipping is to reach decarbonization targets. Focus turned to diversity rather than uniformity of solutions, and flexibility in vessel design to ensure adaptability as suitable solutions emerge.

Business insight

The digital journey to autonomy: taking smarter steps

Leading maritime industry voices taking part in ABB Marine & Ports roundtable confirm that insight gained from experience is allowing the industry to take increasingly smarter steps along the way to autonomy, aided by rapidly evolving digital technologies.

Business insight

Smart port, smart nation: Singapore builds on spectrum of strengths

Singapore often serves as the benchmark for other maritime nations, consistently applying innovative and effective measures to keep their port and shipping activities at the forefront of global maritime development. And on this island city-state, as the port goes, so goes the nation.

Business insight / Group press release

ABB Azipod® electric propulsion marks 30 years of excellence at sea

From its creation three decades ago to its market leading position in global shipping today, Azipod® propulsion has revolutionized marine transport with its unparalleled performance, efficiency, sustainability and reliability.

Business insight

Azipod® propulsion: delivering efficiency to offshore energy

Today, as the ocean energy industry shifts to sustainable mode, demand for Azipod® propulsion offshore continues, driven by performance from 360-degree rotating podded propulsors, high reliability and reduced fuel consumption, and future-proof capabilities that allow owners to invest today in anticipation of tomorrow’s power systems.

Business insight

Azipod® system – propelling ferries into a sustainable future

Demand for Azipod® propulsion continues to grow in the global ferry industry, building on success from early installations and inspired by commitments from shipowners dedicated to moving passengers and vehicles in the greenest possible way on the water.

Business insight

Azipod® propulsion: conquering ice

Where winters are harshest, the toughest technology is required for marine operations to continue uninterrupted during the frozen months. For 30 years, Azipod® propulsion has proven to be up to the task, keeping harbors open and moving goods and people through the most challenging sea ice conditions on the planet.

Business insight

Azipod® propulsion moves yachting into a new era of sustainability

While speed and swank ranked high on the list of priorities for previous generations of superyacht owners, the most requested features today relate to sustainability and efficiency, silent operations, and increased reliability. With proven power savings, quiet performance and a 99.9 percent availability record, Azipod® propulsion checks all the boxes.

Business insight

Azipod® propulsion – supplying sustainable power, performance and comfort to cruise ships

Since the first installation on a cruise ship 25 years ago, Azipod® technology has saved approximately one million tons of fuel in the cruise segment alone.

Business insight

Azipod® propulsion – for the next generation of cargo ships

Embarking on a new chapter in Azipod® propulsion history, in 2019 ABB entered a new market segment with an order to install Azipod® electric propulsion on two dry bulk carriers from Germany’s largest bulk carrier company, Oldendorff Carriers.

Technical insight

Technical insight

Electric power: opportunities for coast guard and navy vessels

Across the shipping industry, electric power systems incorporating batteries and energy storage systems, fuel cells and other sources of shipboard energy and ship-shore energy integration, are set to transform ship design and operation in the years ahead.

Technical insight

Automated excellence: driving efficiency with ABB Ability™ Marine Pilot

Automated docking saves time, money, fuel and emissions. The ABB Ability™ Marine Pilot product family is key to unlocking benefits, enabling enhanced efficiency, safety and optimal operations – every time.

Technical insight

Safer, more efficient ship performance with OCTOPUS

The predictive power behind ABB Ability™ OCTOPUS – Marine Advisory System to monitor and forecast vessel motions is now so evolved that it is tackling some of the most profound safety and efficiency challenges in shipping.

Technical insight

Icebreaking LNG carriers: propulsion solutions enabling efficient operations of today and tomorrow

Since 2007, traffic volumes in the arctic seas have increased substantially, especially in the North-East Passage following the development of major oil and gas projects. In development of icebreaking liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers, the selection of propulsion system plays a major role determining vessel performance, safety and icebreaking capability.

Technical insight

Electric passenger ferries: Future charging infrastructure

Fossil-free propulsion of small ferries is an important technology for the future. Over the last couple of years we have seen many different implementations utilizing electric drive trains, some of which are summarized in the “Review on electric ferries and charging technologies”.

Technical insight

Detecting obstacles from camera images in open seas

While self-driving cars are currently a hot topic, fewer people know that the same level of automation is being developed in the maritime industry. To enhance safety on board and ensure the optimal utilization of crew members, automated assistant solutions are being implemented on cargo ships and vessels.

Technical insight

GNSS-free navigation: Resilient and accurate vessel positioning with radar and digital elevation models

Today’s vessels rely heavily on satellite-based navigation systems for safe operations. These systems, however, are vulnerable to interference, jamming and spoofing. There is another solution: providing absolute positioning of the vessel based on marine radar scans.

Technical insight

Fuel cells in commercial marine applications

Recently, proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) have emerged as the preferred solution in transportation applications, and there are already several marine projects with PEMFC under development. Experience gained from small-scale installations can be utilized in larger ships, as development and demonstration of megawatt-scale fuel cell solutions is already in progress. 

Technical insight

Improved PEMFC performance using zig-zag path of flow channel

In the work presented here, we have attempted to improve the flow channel configuration of the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC).

2020: Mission Zero - Powering sustainability

In this issue we take you from the bottom of the sea, to the moon and back, on a journey to discover how progressive thinkers are tackling the transition to a sustainable economy, what ABB Marine & Ports Division President Juha Koskela calls “one of the major undertakings in human history.”

Join us on this most important of missions – welcome to Generations!

Download the full edition as a PDF

Business insight

Business insight

Committing to a sustainable maritime future

ABB Marine & Ports is committed to supporting the shipping industry’s decarbonization agenda

Business insight

Energy Transition Index 2020
Business insight

2020 and beyond: emergence of a new era
Business insight

The future regulatory landscape: keeping pace with compliance

“Goals must be fed by incentives, and perhaps incentives will also come from elsewhere than the IMO.”

Business insight

Defining autonomy – or not

Why limit autonomy to a definition so early in the game when no one knows what it will become?

Business insight

Building better by building green

The structural shift to renewables should move forward quickly, ideally in a synchronous manner across the world 

Business insight

Energy sources and carriers: pathways to compliance

The emission reduction goals for shipping calls for hydrogen as energy source

Business insight

The floating filling station: bunkering zero-emission fuel at sea

A novel concept using wind and solar power to produce hydrogen, ammonia or liquid biogas at sea

Business insight

A new energy model: yours, mine and ours

Aiming to keep energy as close as possible to where it is generated

Business insight

Azipod® propulsion enables key Arctic climate research expedition

On the mission to improve collection of on-site observations in the central Arctic Ocean

Business insight

ABB Marine Academy rises to meet shipping’s new needs in the north

Knowledge of the sophisticated onboard equipment among the crew is essential

Business insight

Building the case for additive manufacturing

The world’s first 3D printed propeller, made up of 298 layers of nickel-aluminum-bronze alloy

Business insight

3D printing: parts of a bigger picture

The need for decarbonization affects all stakeholders but with it comes opportunities

Business insight

User-centric bridge design: enough is enough

“Our goal was to emphasize simplicity. We wanted to provide only the essentials needed to pilot the vessel”

Business insight

Sustainable by design: building a green future

Changing the world, one bench at a time

Business insight

Hydrogen fuel cells: driving sustainable mobility on the Moon and beyond

Moving humans around with maximum efficiency and optimum safety is the key to sustainable space exploration

Business insight

Electric, autonomous and efficient: sea busses can fill a vital niche

Marine autonomy within the passenger transport is most likely to start with short-travel ferries

Business insight

Electric planes: prepare for takeoff

Finding emission-free solutions for transportation can be both exciting and frustrating

Business insight

Batteries in the big picture – on the right track for recycling?

Battery recycling at scale

Business insight

Mission Zero: quitting carbon

A cross-segmental view on the choice of energy source for vessels

Business insight

Fueling the future of shipping

Optimizing options is a complex equation

Business insight

The steps to autonomy: safety first

A temperature check on the matureness for autonomy among maritime stakeholders

Business insight

Maid of the Mist opts for electric future

Learn why they chose electric

Business insight

The path to a carbon-free maritime industry: investments and innovation

Although the marine industry is dominated by diesel-power, the shift in energy sources is underway

Technical insight

Technical insight

Artificial intelligence: machines learning from ABB experts to enhance remote support for vessels

Combining power of human and machine

Technical insight

ABB Collaborative Operations: the key to efficiency, security and profitability

The true value of any infrastructure lies in the business benefits the data can generate

Technical insight

Machine learning: believe it or not?

Lessons learned so far

Technical insight

Polaris icebreaker study: improving performance and cutting emissions through energy storage

Proving batteries to play a positive role

Technical insight

Best icebreaking practices

Where many operations were not feasible in the past, they now are.

Technical insight

System health management boosts intelligence of Chinese polar research vessel

A milestone in the development of ship intelligence

Technical insight

Shore connection: improving ship efficiency and cutting harborside emissions

Enabling the ships to plug into an onshore energy supply

Technical insight

Onboard Microgrid – simplified power system integration

Providing greater flexibility in the positioning of system on board

Technical insight

Taking the next steps to efficiency with shaft generation solutions

A widely applied solution for several ship types

Technical insight

Transforming terminals in the mega-age

Thinking long-term

Technical insight

Increasing terminal capacity by 10% – a case study in yard transformation

Preventing the port becoming a bottleneck

Technical insight

The Bridge Zero concept and the lookout requirements

The requirements for a conditionally and periodically unmanned bridge can be met by technology

Technical insight

Tube-based model predictive control for dynamic positioning of marine vessels

In the presence of actuator saturation and environmental disturbances.

Technical insight

Nonlinear MPC for combined motion control and thrust allocation of ships

The need for better understanding of the ship’s behavior and control performance 

Technical insight

Autonomous docking and navigation using Voronoi diagrams and model predictive control

A study on autonomous docking in narrow areas

2019: Electric. Digital. Connected.

In this edition of Generations, we explore how electric, digital and connected technologies are converging to offer dramatic gains in efficiency, safety, and sustainability. In this environment of rapid change, ABB has spoken with thought leaders from across the maritime industry. Together we examine the steps being taken toward autonomous shipping, the progress made in developing alternatives to fossil fuels, and the risks and rewards that the maritime industry can expect to encounter on its journey into the digital age.

Download the full edition as a pdf

Business insight

Business insight

Electric, digital and connected – with ABB on the way to a smarter future

The way forward for the maritime industry – and for all of society

Business insight

Electric. Digital. Connected.

These are the keys to a new era in shipping

Business insight

ABB FIA Formula E Championship – completing the circuit

The global e-mobility revolution takes myriad forms. to a new era in shipping

Business insight

Hydrogen on the high seas: welcome aboard!

Hydrogen on the high seas: welcome aboard!

Business insight

The future fuel picture: more than just hydrogen

Exploring alternatives to fossil fuels

Business insight

Making history in Helsinki

The world’s first remote control trial of an existing passenger ferry

Business insight

The reality of autonomous shipping

Striking the balance between captains and computers

Business insight

Control is the key: when the makers meet their machines

A human behaviour specialist view on autonomous

Business insight

At the helm: Captain Radhika Menon

At the helm: Captain Radhika Menon

Business insight

The drive to digital: plotting the right course

The digital maturity level evolves in every industry, and at this point, maritime is still lagging

Business insight

The road to a cyber resilient vessel

Cyber threats are ever-present in the connected world, also in shipping.

Business insight

Learning to live with risk

Some perspectives on accepting, identifying, and managing vulnerability in computer systems

Business insight

Sensors: not only a game changer, a real lifesaver

Beyond changing lives, they can also help save lives
Business insight

China’s role in Marine 4.0

Review of the Generations roundtable session with China’s leading maritime players

Business insight

Cruising into China

Facing opportunities and challenges of the cruise segment
Business insight

The impact of LNG on maritime China

LNG as an important part of the way towards reducing pollution in ports and coastal regions
Business insight

Answering to the environment

When China decides to solve a challenge, they do it large
Business insight

China’s first home-built icebreaker

Carving a polar niche

Technical insight

Technical insight

B0 – a conditionally and periodically unmanned bridge

Enabled by the recent development in sensor technology, data analytics and computing power

Technical insight

Situational awareness isn’t a luxury, so why guess what’s out there?

Identify existing threats as early and as far as possible

Technical insight

Paving the way towards autonomous shipping: ABB Ability™ Marine Pilot Control

Autonomous operations requires more than a regular DP system
Technical insight

Your systems may be optimized but digital twins could learn to do it better

Digital transformation in the marine industry is creating a new collaborative mentality
Technical insight

Autonomy requires fault tolerant, reconfigurable and connected electrical grid for propulsion

Pioneering shipowners are gearing up to utilize the latest technology
Technical insight

Battery power on board: maximizing the benefits

The rise of the marine hybrid powerplant
Techncial insight

Anticipating technical faults with machine learning

Increase efficiency of fleetwide operations enabled by a decade of data

Technical insight

No more loss of containers

Today a total number of containers lost at sea is estimated to be roughly 1,500 per year
Techncial insight

Saving energy on board with ABB’s chiller optimization solution

Targets the substantial hotel load required for a heating ventilation and air conditioning system on passenger ships

Technical insight

Innovation at the extremes: technology for a universal polar icebreaker

Major advances in icebreaker technology over the last 25 years come together in the ‘Universal Polar Icebreaker’

Technical insight

Optimizing fuel efficiency and emission reduction through intelligent power management for hybrid electric vessels

Facing the increasing pressure to find solutions for more energy efficient operations, and what to take into account

Technical insight

Next level remote operations – the remote crane operator and beyond

Impacting the entire terminal operation and challenging us to evolve the roles of port workers
Technical insight

Azipod® M propulsion for ferries and RoPax vessels: faster, safer, cleaner

2017: Shipping 4.0

Electrification, digitalisation, and connectivity are converging on the maritime industry in a powerful combination destined to transform the way we move people and things on the water. This edition of Generations contains insight from some of the most visionary thinkers of our time, from the shipping industry and without. It also contains practical advice on how smart use of today’s technology can help us move toward a cleaner, safer, and more efficient maritime industry.

Download the full edition as a pdf

Business insight

Business insight

Navigating the 4th industrial revolution

Digital technology can deliver us into a new era of shipping

Business insight

The power of the future

Review of the Generations roundtable session held in London with focus on this topic

Business insight

Round and round we go

Renewing an idea dating back thousands of years: using wind to propel ships.

Business insight

Batteries – the next big thing

The world has a growing appetite for batteries, not just more, but bigger and better
Business insight

Cleaning up, a little at a time

The idea of solar power on ships is not a new thing, but the enthusiasm building up around it is

Business insight

A breakthrough in icebreaking

The world’s first LNG-powered icebreaker
Business insight

LNG – a cleaner choice

Comparing an LNG fueled vessel with one running on heavy fuel oil, or even diesel

Business insight

Hydrogen – the perfect fuel?

The one place it is not common – at least not yet – is where it may be of most use to humanity: as fuel
Business insight

Catching fuel cell fever

“Fuel cells have been the next big thing for 25 years. Now it’s really happening”, Jostein Bogen says.

Business insight

The pace of technology

ABB Chief Digital Officer Guido Jouret gives his insides on how technology innovations and digitalization are affecting the industry

Business insight

A digital journey

Mikko Lepistö, SVP Digital Solutions, ellaborates on why electric vessels are a key factor to an intelligent fleet

Business insight

A new way

Hyperloop TRanportation Technologies, a brainchild of Elon Musk, is out to revolutionise transportation on our planet

Business insight

Putting the numbers to work

Why the Chief Digital Officer remains something of a novelty in shipping

Business insight

We’ve only just begun

If you think cyber security issues in shipping have been resolved, think again – or be prepared for a rude awakening

Business insight

Managing risk in a digital world

As the industry accelerates its migration from analogue to digital solutions, many owners have the same question: Can we trust the data?
Business insight

Testing the digital waters

Marine insurance in the 4th industrial revolution
Business insight

Shifting gears in Shanghai

President of SSNAME, Professor Xing Wenhua, shares some thoughts on the current shift, and the future prospects
Business insight

Autonomous in the Arctic – fortune or folly?

Arctic shipping is hot, but the climate is definitely not. Does that make it a good idea or a bad one to send ships to the far north without crew?

Business insight

Seeking intelligent shipping

Kalevi Tervo, Global Program Manager of ABB Marine & Ports has a high-level vision for shipping.
Business insight

The force of policy

How powerful is policy, really? “If you don’t comply, you don’t work”, answers Eero Lehtovaara, Head of Regulatory and Development in ABB Marine & Ports
Business insight

When is a ship not a ship?

This real-life riddle is one that the shipping industry is going to have to solve as the vision of autonomous, or even assisted vessels, edges closer to reality.

Business insight

The American perspective, as seen by ABS

Jamie Smith, ABS Americas Division President, offers their take on the current and future outlook for shipping in the USA

Business insight

Willing to move

Shipping’s reputation as a conservative industry is well deserved, earned by generations of simply sticking to what works

Business insight

The International Chamber of Shipping on policy

Q&A with Chairman of ICS, Esben Poulsson

Business insight

Regulations under siege?

On many fronts, yes. But no need for panic, assures Dr. Tristan Smith, Reader in Energy and Shipping at University College of London

Business insight

The people in the picture

Review of the Generations roundtable session held in Helsinki with focus on this topic

Business insight

The people are ready – but is the industry?

Following the improving of connectivity on shore at sea is a key to attracting next generation of seafarers to the next generation of shipping

Business insight

Disruption in all directions

Tony Seba calls himself Chief Disruptor. Technically he is an author, lecturer and entrepreneur, but his passion is for things that change things
Business insight

View from the crew

Tommy Olofsen, Head of Crew Management at OSM, gives his view on the didigtal impact on crews, crew management providers and their interactions with vessels and onshore teams
Business insight

Hacking the human element

Technical treachery often steals the headlines when data systems are breached by hackers. But Ilia Kolochenko, CEO of High-Tech Bridge, says the human element is the hacker’s most useful tool.

Business insight

Embracing individual disruption

As with many jobs on board a modern ship, the view from the engine room is changing as Shipping 4.0 becomes reality.
Business insight

Container handling – a new order

Not science fiction or fantasy, container-handling cranes are becoming increasingly intelligent, capable of making more decisions by themselves instead of following commands from above.

Business insight

Motivate and modernise

MIT’s introduction of ASCs alongside RTGs is
among the industry’s first such cases.

Business insight

Where there’s a will, there’s a way

Building the most technologically advanced, efficient, and cost effective terminal in the US, may need a non-straightforward path to that goal.

Technical insight

Technical insight

MARANDA - Aranda goes hybrid

In the EU-funded MARAN DA project, an emission-free hydrogen fuelled PEMFC-based hybrid power train system is being developed for marine applications.

Technical insight

Ice Mode Encounters in Kara Sea onboard Christophe de Margerie

ABB is happy to report that the Ice Mode function, which Generations covered in its 2016 Connectivity issue, has now been successfully trialled in ARC-7 ice conditions.

Technical insight

Closing the loop from office to propeller with ABB Ability™

In most ship segments, fuel cost is one of the biggest cost elements in the ship operation. In addition to fuel costs, fuel consumption and the efficiency of power plant operation play a major role in the total emissions of the ship.

Technical insight

Digital and intelligent Semi-submersible Heavy Transport Vessel

As the major ocean transport tool of large intact cargo, the semi-submersible heavy transport vessel (SSHTV) has become more and more valued with the rapid advance of ocean engineering, polar exploration and global trade.
Technical insight

Ice going Multipurpose Vessel (MPV) Integrated Automation System

The H389 Ice going multipurpose (MPV) is a DYN POS -3 vessel built at Keppel Singmarine shipyard in Singapore. This vessel is equipped with the ABB Medium Voltage Power and Propulsion System.
Technical insight

Towards environmental compliance with the next generation of onboard decision support

ABB’s decision support software provides a common platform integrating ship data within a tool providing real-time decision support.

Technical insight

ABB Ability™ System 800xA

ABB’s Ability™ System 800xA integrates all onboard systems into one platform, empowering both crews and land-based organisations to operate vessels and fleets with enhanced intelligence, safety, efficiency and effectiveness.
Technical insight

Integrated Marine Systems Lab

Traditionally, electrical and automation systems on board a ship are designed and verified separately by different vendors for independent and reliable operation.

Technical insight

ABB Ability™ Marine Remote Diagnostic System Release 5.2

Software and hardware technology upgrade, new functionality, simplified commissioning, scalable infrastructure for IT service centers.

Technical insight

Onboard DC Grid – a system platform at the heart of Shipping 4.0

In March 2013, ABB delivered our first Onboard DC Grid system on the MPSV Dina Star, making Myklebusthaug Management the first in the world with an IMO vessel powered by a modern primary DC power system.

2016: Connectivity

Our 2016 issue features a multi-faceted look into connectivity and how it is changing virtually everything about the way we work, and play. In the sky and under the sea, and everywhere in between, connecting things, services and people is keeping the world busy.

Download the full edition as a pdf

Business insight

Business insight

Perspectives on connectivity

Introduction from the Generations editorial committee

Business insight

When staying connected becomes critical

New opportunities present new challenges for Teekay in the Arctic

Business insight

Dealing in efficiency

EU investments in the maritime industry

Business insight

The times, they are a-changin’

Ericsson today: A big dog learns new tricks
Business insight

Small steps to big data

Industrial IoT apps to the people

Business insight

Getting personal

Inmarsat provides safety – and happiness – at sea

Business insight

Q&A with IBM

A hardware giant steps into software
Business insight

A very connected place

Rotterdam gets it

Business insight

Every link in the chain

A Dutch bank finds value in all things maritime

Business insight

The connection to sustainability

The forward-thinking Port of Rotterdam

Business insight

Finding common ground

‘Polderen’ binds the Dutch maritime community

Business insight

Keeping pace, one step at a time

Deliotte on how to thrive in the connected future

Business insight

Building relationships

Kleven is all about building, and not just ships
Business insight

Embracing the digital world

DNV GL reads the digital tea leaves

Business insight

The sky’s the limit

Following the lead of the airline industry

Business insight

Making the impossible possible

Dockwise moves the big stuff – with a little digital help

Business insight

The cruise wave is cresting

Not only the big ships, but also smaller expedition vessels are in demand

Business insight

A vision for the fjords

A remarkable ship connects tourists with Norway’s nature

Business insight

The first days, the next years

Juha Koskela after 200 days as BU Marine and Ports managing director

Technical insight

Technical insight

From subsystems to super system

Introduction from Jan-Fredrik Hansen

Technical insight

Integrated operations

ABB’s digital business transformation for the maritime industry

Technical insight

Remote diagnostics for the marine industry

The latest developments in RDS4Marine
Technical insight

Empowering the machines

Time to distribute intelligence in container terminals

Technical insight

Short sea solution

Shore power can be a game changer

Technical insight

The best of both worlds

Optimising efficiency in DFDE for LNG carriers

Technical insight

ABB Ice Mode

Smart, connected, safe solutions for Arctic LNG

Technical insight

Next generation control

Optimal operations from office to propeller

Technical insight

Jacking Control System

Enhancing reliability and efficiency

Technical insight

Hybrid laboratory

Empowering innovation in energy efficient marine solutions

Technical insight

Electric potential

Examining the possibilities of battery powered car ferries

Technical insight

Dynamic AC

Variable speed power generation in high voltage marine power systems

Technical insight

Bridge Systems

Smart moves into the future

2014: Profitability

In our 2014 issue we explore three main keys to profitability – strategic decision-making, technical flexibility and operational efficiency – through the opinions of economists, lawyers, bankers and other decision-makers.

Download the full edition as a pdf

Business insight

Business insight

Opportunities and value

Is your vessel an asset or a liability?

Business insight

Shipping at a watershed

Maritime economist Martin Stopford’s take on the industry

Business insight

Cargo owners needed to help lead change

Stopford’s thoughts on what should be done
Business insight

Technology talk: Flexibility could trump design point

A more profitable way to design a ship?

Business insight

Technology talk: Where technology will take us

The advances that lie in the future

Business insight

Technology talk: Risk assessment is the big issue today

Emerging technology behind this trend

Business insight

Timing is all in shipping

Ignore the cycles at your peril, says shipping strategist Peter Lorange

Business insight

Communication key to innovation

Lorange gives innovators good advice

Business insight

Pressure cooker

The demanding world of offshore drilling

Business insight

Texas style is catching

What makes Houston’s multinationals tick

Business insight

Next steps towards the Arctic dream

Icebreakers forging ahead

Business insight

In the Zone

Andreas Sohmen-Pao on staying profitable in a volatile industry

Business insight

Eleven years on site

ABB project manager tells why they’re still on site at Jurong

Business insight

Back to the future

APM Terminals’ Tiemen Meester on opting for automation

Business insight

Complexity that led to success

The rapid growth of TC Buen’s Colombian terminal has been four years in the making

Business insight

Entrepreneur with a vision

The man behind the success of Amarcon’s motion analysis software

Business insight

Sloshing worries many

Why this problem won’t go away

Business insight

Heavy lift getting heavier

Hence the demand for motion analysis and monitoring products

Business insight

Sign on the dotted line

Leading maritime lawyer on deals that can make or break a company

Business insight

Investors want proof of new technology

It’s a question of who will take the risk first

Business insight

Shipping moving at its own pace

V.Ships CTO Andrea Zito shares his outlook on the shipping markets

Business insight

Remote monitoring link to fuel efficiency

Research than could lead to ‘self developing’ tools

Business insight

Uncovering value

How multi-million dollar systems are sold

Business insight

Real-time is too late

A team of specialists looks at problems and possible solutions for container handling

Business insight

Price is not everything

Export credit agency head tells technology providers to guide their customers

Technical insight

Technical insight

Solutions that benefit vessels throughout their lifetime

Enhancing the availability and efficiency of operations

Technical insight

Azipod® C gearless propulsor improves operational profitability

Long-time market leaders in the most demanding applications

Technical insight

Azipod® propulsion ideal for ice management

Flexibility in different ice management situations

Technical insight

Onboard DC Grid - one year in operation

Real-life operations confirm theoretical fuel-efficiency and other gains

Technical insight

Optimizing the design and power management strategy of tugs with Onboard DC Grid

A joint study between Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University and ABB Singapore

Technical insight

Total integration reduces installation and other costs

Complex engineering and class rules no longer hinder total integration

Technical insight

Vertical integration offers a total propulsion solution

The more the system knows, the more it is able to give efficient advice

Technical insight

Automated container terminals are taking off

More terminals are turning to automation to meet several challenges

Technical insight

Motion analyses offer superb support on board

Heavy transport operations benefit at both preparation and transport phase
Technical insight

Design point can hinder propulsion potential

Flexible shipbuilding may be a better way to go

Technical insight

Technology that makes “floating gas pipelines” so reliable

Advanced engineering enables LNG carriers to keep the world economy turning

Technical insight

Quality upgrades can meet stricter closed bus rules

Upgrades for drillships and semi-submersibles are as safe and reliable as newbuilds

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