Obemannade fartyg sett ur ett maskinsrumsperspektiv

Abstract

Progress is moving forward at a fast pace in most technical areas. The engine room is no exception. The size of the engine crew has steadily decreased the last decades, and some researchers and technology companies have started to look at the possibility of unmanned ships. The object of this thesis is to find out what obstacles the unmanned ship is facing. Chalmers University of Technology is involved in a European research project called MUNIN where a simulated vessel will be operated between Europe and South America. The MUNIN project focuses mainly on autonomous navigation of an unmanned vessel. To find out what difficulties this project is facing from the engine room perspective, four experienced marine engineers were interviewed to share their experiences and thoughts. The interviews indicated that there are a number of problems concerning the operation of the unmanned engine room. During the interviews a number of proposals for new designs were presented. The authors also give their own views and suggestions on how an unmanned engine room can be designed. The conclusion of the report is that an unmanned vessel is a possible concept with today’s technology although the project is facing technical and economical difficulties. All sections of the shipping industry will have to aim for the same goal and development.