Research ship Polarstern as "digital twin"

First point cloud of a research vessel

Just as important is one of the latest Viega services – the digitisation of objects by its partner company DiConneX. Within two days, a 3D laser scanner generated a point cloud of various decks and rooms on the Polarstern. The vessel now has a digital twin with saved as-built data. This allows researchers to arrange and equip their laboratories on the vessel as they like using a virtual model online before setting out.

In terms of machine technology too, this kind of digitisation can offer significant advantages, as DiConneX CEO Jörg Jungedeitering explains: "The point cloud allows us to configure the vessel's technical equipment, from the engine room to the crow's nest, in detail, with all the key documents stored and, for all assemblies and all installation components and so on, keep the information required for operation, preventive maintenance or repairs up to date".

It would be feasible, for example, during one of the Polarstern's missions, to reduce berthing times in the shipyard by identifying maintenance measures on the digital twin in advance. Or offer online assistance to any repairs required on the high seas.