Bringing Big Data Technology to Wind Turbine Installation Vessels

Abstract

Digitalization is a key component of the ongoing Energy Transition. Although the offshore and maritime industries tend to be conservative in the adoption of new technologies, in recent years a digital journey was embraced to stay competitive, safe, and efficient. Data from mobile offshore units can be transformed into something valuable. However, collecting and processing of system’s data requires proper infrastructure, a software platform that handles data delivery and applications that translate the data into valuable information. The challenge is therefore to turn good ideas and intentions into solutions that add real value. With this challenge in mind, in recent years GustoMSC | NOV worked on Big Data technology for wind turbine installation vessels (WTIVs). The purpose of this endeavor is to assist our end users in increasing the safety and efficiency of their operations. This paper addresses some key aspects and components of this digital journey and shares experiences on merging Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) environments in an ongoing effort to fulfill the promise that Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technology brings. A practical example is presented where Big Data is used to boost the performance of mobile offshore wind installation units.