The bridge solution developed by Norwegian Electric Systems, the RAVEN INS®, has now been type-approved by DNV GL in accordance with the latest standards. The integrated bridge allows for simpler and more flexible use and provides improved operational reliability and a sound platform for the future digital and green revolution at sea.
RAVEN INS® (Raven Integrated Navigation System) has been granted the world’s first type approval for a bridge solution where an integrated application has been developed for the bridge instead of combining different pieces of software.
Executive Vice President Johannes Tveit of Norwegian Electric Systems (NES) compares this to how people used to have a calculator, a photo album and a phone book, while all of these functions are now combined in their smartphone.
RAVEN INS® integrates the various tasks for charts, route planning, radar, autopilot, trackpilot etc. into a comprehensive program and a bridge solution with all software and hardware, as well as an optional integrated operator’s chair to make the operations more convenient.
Easy to use and reliable
RAVEN INS® allow users to easily adapt the monitors and screen layout as needed.
“We can tailor the bridge to suit the type of vessel and the operations to be carried out. You can also simply switch between different operations at the touch of a button, whether you are on a transport leg, approaching port or lying stationary, for example beside a wind farm.”
Svein Ove Farstad, General Manager Sales & Marketing for NES, also emphasises that the computer and network-based solution improves safety.“RAVEN INS® provide multiple redundancy. If a monitor or computer fails, others will take over any vital function.”
The computer and network solution also ensures adaptability to future requirements and needs. The comprehensive system developed by the company is ready for new functions to be added.
As additional needs become apparent and the technology develops, more functions can be added. They could include solutions for engine alarm monitoring, thruster control and dynamic positioning, or smaller systems such as navigation light controls.
The network solution also means that RAVEN INS® is ready to interact with shore on data capture and remote monitoring.
This is an important element in the development towards increasing automation and autonomous vessels. RAVEN INS® support enhanced user and operational support. And a digital twin is already part of the system, which allows for remote training where the crew can sit at home with their laptop and receive training.