A solid foundation

Ghost Yachts used its Ghost G180 platform for the hybrid yacht. Its Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) by Van Oossanen & Associates offers the required efficiency to operate a large yacht with a relatively modest propulsion power. Imtech’s smart Hybrid system combined with Van Oossanen’s revolutionary FDHF have proven to be a perfect combination for a sustainable and efficient yacht. During the development of the system, Imtech managed to unravel the initial complexity of the Hybrid system and shaped it into a compact and sensible unit. Ghost Yachts reduced the required technical space by dividing the Hybrid’s technical space in two levels. The silent parts of the hybrid system like the Power Electronics Panels, batteries, and main switchboard are located on the lower deck while the four Volvo Penta D16G generators are located in an insulated engine bay underneath the electronics room. The Ghost G180H is propelled by two completely new electric Voith Inline Propulsors (VIP) of 750kw each. These high efficiency hubless steerable pods have an integrated electric motor and eliminate the need for propeller shafts and rudders. The Voith VIP’s and Imtech’s Hybrid system result in an extremely silent and vibration free propulsion system. The Hybrid system operates in seven different modes ranging from battery only to full hybrid operation. Each mode is specifically designed to ensure an optimal efficiency in every situation. The system is controlled by Imtech’s new IMAS variable frequency drives control system, with interfacing and remote control via the FT NavVision IPMS system.

Smart interior

The G180H has been thoroughly reviewed to learn about the power consumption in navigation and at anchor. The prime consumers have been reviewed to see how much power could potentially be saved. To reduce the power requirement for the chillers and fancoils the G180H’s windows are coated with a ceramic film that blocks out up to 80% of the sun’s heat producing infrared light.

The HVAC system is assisted by a cold water storage to extend the operational time of the system during battery only operation. The interior of the yacht is also designed to require less energy from the HVAC system. The main salon and dining room, for example, are equipped with four generous lateral sliding doors which provide access for a natural breeze that flows through the superstructure. The layout will create a more natural and balanced climate inside this large space by virtually connecting it to the outside areas. Van Berge Henegouwen reworked the AV and communications systems to optimise power consumption. A thorough review of the systems’ components and the extensive use of LED lighting guaranteed a lower energy consumption.

Remarkable results

Ghost Yachts has compared the G180H to a number of modern displacement yachts with a comparable length and volume. The overall fuel consumption was reduced by a vast 30% while the fuel consumption for hotel operation showed savings of up to 50%. The performance of the yacht is perfectly in line with today’s superyachts offering a cruising speed of 15.5 knots with a range of over 4500nm at a 13 knots passage speed.

“Developing the G180H was very rewarding.” Björn Moonen of Ghost Yachts explains.

In the beginning I approached the project with suspicion rather than enthusiasm. I was convinced that a hybrid system would be too complicated, too big and too expensive to build. The Imtech engineers were clearly not sharing my opinion. They developed the hybrid system’s layout with my concerns as starting point. When I saw the first technical layout and reviewed the space requirements, the enthusiasm started to grow, especially when we reviewed the overall efficiency data. It was impossible not to be excited by the enormous potential of the system .”

“All pieces of the Hybrid puzzle came together on the G180H.” Imtech’s Sales Manager Marien van der Deijl explains.

Diesel Electric propulsion systems often require a lot of concessions in terms of performance and interior space on a yacht of this size. This time we were dealing with a combination of an optimal hull shape and a pair of Voith Rimdrives that matched perfectly with the available power of the DE hybrid system”.

On the horizon

Parallel to the development of the G180H, Ghost Yachts also finalised the technical development of their most popular yachts, the G180L and the <500GT G180V. These models also shared from the benefits of the hybrid’s development, confirming the need for efficiency to create speed. The G180V offers a 32knots cruising speed and a 36knots top speed. An updated centre boost unit gives the G180V a top speed of nearly 50 knots. The efficiency of the yacht is probably best displayed with a range of 4750nm at a passage speed of 15 knots. Ghost Yachts continues with the development of the Ghost G180K, their first sailing yacht which is expected to be presented next spring.

Ghost Yachts
contact person: Björn Moonen
T: +31 (0)641 209081
E: moonen@ghost-yachts.com
W: www.ghost-yachts.com

Gloss Design
contact person: Stefano Carugno
T: +39 085 9116055
E: stefcar@glossdesign.it
W: www.glossdesign.it

Imtech Marine&Offshore
contact person: Marien van der Deijl
T: +31 (0)10 4871319
E: marien.vanderdeijl@imtech.nl
W: www.imtechmarine.com

Imtech AMCS is designed to provide a complete AMCS system including installation and service from a single source. To achieve this, Imtech Marine Germany cooperated with Free Technics and evolved the established Free Technics NavVision^® system to meet the highest requirements. The combination of Imtech Marine Germany’s integration and customer knowledge with Free Technics’ software expertise and products resulted in a highly modular, flexible and state-of-the-art AMCS.

Imtech AMCS' Duty Alarm Panel

Cost-effective configuration, commissioning and maintenance
User-friendly configuration tools allow for cost-effective configuration, commissioning and maintenance of the AMCS. A graphical editor is available to create user-defined Mimics. The I/O substations consist of WAGO Series 750 PLC and are extendable up to 1,000 I/O-ports per substation. Imtech AMCS is able to read out and control more than 10,000 measuring points.

The worldwide availability of type-approved “Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS)” components guarantees optimal Life Cycle Cost for the end-user. Spare parts can be replaced without the need for a field service engineer. Replaced components are configured automatically by the AMCS.

GL certificate No. 9499810 HH

At the German SMM exhibition, Imtech Marine Group (of which Free Technics is a subsidiary) will present a unique live satellite connection with the vessel ‘Spaarneborg’ of ship owner Wagenborg, on large LCD screen walls at stand no. 210 in hall B6. Radio Holland, member of the Imtech Marine group and connectivity specialist in the global maritime market coordinates these live connectivity demonstrations, supported by Free Technics and Royal Dirkzwager, as well as Orlaco and Wagenborg Shipping. During the demonstrations, the SMM visitor will see live data of the vessel and its operations and Imtech will show various applications and possibilities, such as:

• real time monitoring of vessel data and IP video streams;
• efficient sailing and operations (for example ETA updates);
• value added services in connectivity (for example GSM on board)
• and remote maintenance & control.

The demonstrations will take place daily at the SMM show, Imtech Marine booth B6, stand 210 at 11, 14 and 16 hours. On Wednesday 8th September, there will be an extra demonstration during the happy hour at the stand, at 16.30 pm.

Free Technics contribution to the Connected Ship

Free Technics is a maritime specialist in Navigation, Alarm, Monitoring and Control Systems and the developer of FT NavVision, a complete solution for automation onboard of ships. For the Connected Ship demonstration, Free Technics provides an AMCS server including Remote Monitoring capabilities. This server is connected via an Ethernet connection to the VSAT system. For demonstration purposes, an Airmar PB200 weather station is connected to the AMCS server. The PB200 provides the AMCS server with a complete set of navigation data and weather information. Furthermore an AIS receiver is connected to the system, showing all relevant data of surrounding vessels. Via the VSAT connection, all available information is transmitted to the shore. On the exhibition floor, an FT NavVision client shows the transmitted data on a Conning screen and an Electronic Chart. Connection of engine data to the AMCS server will provide the system with Remote Maintenance capabilities. For maintenance, relevant sensor data will be available live for use at the office.

The Spaarneborg cargo ship

Radio Holland: connectivity specialist

Radio Holland provides connectivity solutions sourced from the worlds’ leading satellite operators and satellite solution providers. Staying in contact is crucial, whether a customer is on shore or a vessel is at open sea. On shore, a customer wants to stay connected to his fleet. Out at sea, the customer wants to be able to contact his next port of call, stay in touch with the company, family or friends and coordinate with the rest of the fleet. The customer needs a connection he can count on.

Radio Holland will have a live connectivity demonstration several times a day where the customer can experience the cutting edge satellite communication tools available today. With this demonstration Radio Holland strives to indicate how they are a reliable and innovative partner, delivering high quality Connectivity Solutions for the best value.

Royal Dirkzwager contribution to the Connected Ship

Running shot of the Spaarneborg cargo vessel

Royal Dirkzwager is a specialised maritime information & service provider, providing nautical and maritime information to deep- and shortsea shipping related companies. Royal Dirkzwager developed BridgeAssist, which focuses on fuel efficient sailing and efficient port entry for short- and long-haul voyages. Especially for the final part of these voyages direct contact from the nautical service desk and the bridge team on the vessel is essential. Royal Dirkzwager is capable of supplying real time information concerning the operational port conditions directly from the nautical service desk to the responsible crew members on the bridge. This information includes operational circumstances at the arrival berth/terminal of the vessel as well as availability of local service providers as tugs, boatmen and pilots. Furthermore the nautical service desk provides the vessel with the latest MetOcean information such as tidal windows, currents, waveheights and other critical information.
On board a Deep sea pilot from Royal Dirkzwager (optional) assists the bridge-crew on the port entry operations. BridgeAssist can reduce fuel consumption of vessels even in the final part of the voyage with 5 – 10%. Savings on fuel for the long haul are, depending on conditions, comparable.

Orlaco contribution to the Connected Ship

Orlaco focuses on its “Smartview” solution. Smartview is based on the latest video compression technology H264, which offers a wide range of opportunities. Orlaco SmartView H.264 is a complete video view software system for up to 128 cameras and multiple control stations, for an easy view and control from the cameras over TCP/IP on a local computer or network. Smartview offers a powerful video viewing application for various camera-system configurations. Imtech Marine Connected Ship shows the possibilities of Smartview during the exhibiton. Due to the low bandwidth it is easier than ever to have a live view on board through Satellite communication. A live video connection between MV Spaarneborg and the Royal Dirkzwager control room will also be made. This offers a whole new range of possibilities, for example; cargo protection, onshore support during machine room / engine failure and protection against piracy.

Jorren Stierman, student Naval Architecture and member of the team, responds:

“To Team Solarboat Delft, changing our name to Imtech Solarboat Delft is a major step in our existence. With Imtech as our main sponsor we can begin with truly fulfilling our goals. With this co-operation, we hope to sail a successful Frisian Solar Challenge. Naturally, we aim to win it!”

The Frisian Solar Challenge has grown over two editions to be the largest durable event in The Netherlands. This race, with young contestants from all across the globe, takes place following the traditional “Eleven Cities” route.
Starting July 4th, the solar-powered boats sail past the eleven Frisian cities in six days. The contest features three divisions, the highest of which being the one Imtech Solarboat Delft participates in. Just as the Imtech Marine & Offshore management did, you can support the students by sponosoring one or more solar cells via imtechsolarboatdelft.nl

By sponsoring Team Solarboat Delft, Imtech invests in a new generation of technicians & engineers. Additionally, the sponsorship neatly fits into Imtech’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy, which Imtech actively follows. Imtech CEO René van der Bruggen:

“CSR continuously seeps into our society. As frontrunner in the technical servicing sector Imtech assumes an exemplary position. CSR, to Imtech, is more than just a passing fashion. These past few years, we have seriously addressed the issue of how to leverage our strong market-position to create a durable society. Imtech is a pragmatic company; from this angle we constantly develop a wide array of activities. At the same time, Imtech does more legally required. Our innovative technological solutions largely contribute to a durable society. Imtech Marine Group, Imtech’s maritime division, supplies “green” technology on board ships. Recent “green” projects include Rainbow Warrior III and PlanetSolar.”

Business profile Imtech Marine Group
Imtech Marine Group is an independent group of well established and renowned Imtech companies who have joined forces and cooperate to offer the marine industry a wide range of technical solutions. Imtech Marine Group’s mission is to be the sustainable, reliable, global and technical partner for professionals in the marine industry. The group offers tailor made, innovative solutions (systems and services) in automation, nav/com, HVAC (heating, ventilation & air condition), fire protection, energy and AV entertainment. The Imtech Marine Group includes renowned companies like Imtech Marine Germany, Imtech Marine & Offshore, Imtech Schiffbau-/Dockbautechnik, Radio Holland Group, Royal Dirkzwager and Van Berge Henegouwen Installaties, and is employer to 2.500 people.
In 2010, Imtech celebrates her 150th anniversary.

Frank Soonieus

will be appointed General Manager of Free Technics BV. He will take the place of Wim van Rij who will enjoy his well-earned retirement.
Frank will lead Free Technics, together with Peter Weijers, in a time where FT NavVision will play a vital role in Imtech Marine Group’s automation solutions. Frank will focus on the commercial aspects of the company, whereas Peter will lead the technical staff.

In the past few years, Frank has worked as Proposal & Sales Manager for Imtech’s Naval, Specials & Offshore Business Unit. He has a wide experience with automation systems as well as sales, while at the same time building a sizable network within the market.

Wim van Rij

Wim van Rij founded Free Technics in his own backyard, selling GPS receivers at first. Under his lead, Free Technics ventured into the field of maritime automation with the development of FT NavVision, which quickly became the company’s flagship product. This course, set out by Wim van Rij, allowed Free Technics to achieve continued growth and ultimately resulted in the acquirement by Imtech in 2007.

We wish both Frank Soonieus & Wim van Rij the best of luck in their new situations.

Layout Viewer Example

The innovation

FT NavVision®’s Layout Viewer received a major upgrade. It already was a unique tool among the variety of possibilities offered by alarm and monitoring systems, but now with its new features our Layout Viewer is truly unsurpassed.
One new feature is the ability to easily create virtually every mimic imaginable without any need for an extensive knowledge of programming. All mimics can fully utilise dynamic representations of your data.
When creating a mimic, the client, importer or installer has full disposal of a large symbol-database. These symbols naturally include pumps, valves, switches, lights and various other symbols, a large number of which are animated.

New possibilities

In the past, you could have seven mimics with non-transparent BMP-images; now you can choose between 5, 10, 20 or 30 mimics which you can design yourself. As mentioned above, Free Technics possesses a great deal of experience in both graphics and user interface. You can have us design and create your mimics to be sure you have the best mimics possible.

Animated imagery

An animated image can be a switch, pump, valve: anything you want displayed in animation. These animations can easily be connected to any equipment you wish the animation to represent. By doing so, a clear representation of e.g. RPM is created. In case of conduits, the direction and speed of flow can be represented by using similar animations.
A different matter is the representation of fire- and hatch alarms. A clear view of what is actually going on is given by using wll thought-out graphical symbols that are universally recognizable. Navigation lights and the likes are represented in such a way that there can be no doubt about their current state.

Layout Viewer Example

Mimics

Each mimic can contain electrical schematics with components like generators and switches and the likes, as well as values like current, frequency, flows or overloads detected in the system; all is displayed in the user-friendly manner you are used from Free Technics. Because of the Layout Viewer’s simplicity it is no longer a tedious task to create customer-specific combinations in your mimics.
All images used can be linked to FT NavVision®’s functionality and alarms. This means that by simply clicking on the mouse any icon, switch, pump or any other symbol can be linked to any function of the FT NavVision® system.

Controls

Using the existing control-functions of FT NavVision® and combining them with the mimics of the Layout Viewer, you are able to use logical switches in each mimic. These can either be advanced, logical switches and/or alarm functions, but also joystick-like functionality. In fact: any control function imaginable can be realised.

Ballast- & tank functionality

In addition to all mentioned earlier, you are able to incorporate a ballast or fuel system in one or multiple mimics. An example of a completely feasible mimic is one where all conduits, valves, pumps, switches, tank-levels and flowspeeds are shown. The logical connections are taken care of by FT NavVision®, PLC or a combination of the two.

Dependency

The new Layout Viewer is designed in such a way you no longer need engineers knowledgeable in software programming. Of course some technical knowledge and experience is desired to create a accurate representation. However, you most definitely do not have to be a software specialist to create mimics that accurately represent the systems on your vessel.

L-CAT Landing Catamaran

Free Technics recently delivered the first of a series of Catamarans developed for the French Navy. A custom-made catamaran design capable of transporting e.g. two tanks over water at high speed, and dropping them at the beach. Like the landing doors, the deck can dynamically move, and can also operate when submerged. This gives the vessel unique anbd surprising capabilities, other than the high-speed transport of armored vehicles and troops. The difficulty of the moving deck is that, on lowering the deck, the differences between the multiple measuring points may only be of the smallest amounts.

These measuring points are distributed to FT NavVision® using a WAGO PLC and its inputs. The FT NavVision® system, through Wago, takes care of the processing of the measured data and controls of the hydraulics, but also for the display & status of the deck and landing doors. Furthermore, each hull is fitted with two MTU engines and a generator, all monitored by FT NavVision®. Each hull is independent of the other and can operate on its own.
In close co-operation with Pochon Professionel, we created an installation that takes care of the alarm-management and control over the engine room. Also, all fire-, bilge- and door-alarms, as well as any engine- and generator-alarms are displayed.

Helm L-CAT, showing FT NavVision boot-screen

Next to these vital tasks, the moving deck is also monitored and controlled using FT NavVision® and Wago PLC’s, while its current status is displayed on screen using dynamic imagery. To this end, we created additional images that give a clear and concise view of the deck’s movement and status. Concerning engines and generators, we developed 6 dedicated viewers next to the general viewers in order to be able to monitor each generator and engine in great detail, real time.

The system has been delivered under classification by Bureau Veritas, and also approved on board by the same society. All alarms are processed according to the rules set in the “Unmanned Engine Room” brief, and distributed to the multiple alarmstations fitted in the various huts on board. The vessel has been sailing quite a while already, and both importer and client are pleased with the final outcome of the project based on FT NavVision®.