Report

Teaser, summary, work performed and final results

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - Wave Predictor (Wave Predictor)

Teaser

Offshore waves are irregular and unpredictable. The only way offshore operations can be managed safely is through a combination of elaborate statistics and large safety margins. These have been inalienable truths for all offshore operations and vessels for decades. The current...

Summary

Offshore waves are irregular and unpredictable. The only way offshore operations can be managed safely is through a combination of elaborate statistics and large safety margins. These have been inalienable truths for all offshore operations and vessels for decades. The current state of the art in offshore radar technology is real-time analysis of surrounding wave spectra, in order to calculate the probability that a too high wave arises.

Next Ocean has developed a world-wide unique technology to predict (critically high) waves 3 minutes in advance. Their Wave Predictor (WP), which is the result of more than ten years of research, contains unique “deciphering” and predictive algorithms for upcoming waves and the resulting ship motions. The Wave Predictor predicts exactly when and where dangerously high waves occur, enabling users to anticipate proactively in time.

Specific objectives in this H2020-SMEInst Phase 1 feasibility study were:
1. To explore the potential for scale-up to European and global offshore markets, identifying the most promising segments for scale-up, in order to make a validated decision on segment, continent/country and client prioritization, and identify up to 50 most promising new customers in 2019.
2. To draft a detailed business plan for Next Ocean’s European and global expansion.

Work performed

A 6 months desk study, internet research and interviews by phone disclosed the highest potential customers, highest potential regions to start with commercialization and implementation, and market validation for vessel types with highest priority. With this information, a business plan was constructed to commercialize the product. It became clear that the focus initially lies on European countries in the Navy segment, Offshore Production segment, and Offshore Construction and Installation segment.

Final results

When the product enters the commercial market, it is expected that the number of accidents on vessels will decrease significantly, which benefits the health of offshore workers. Also, offshore operations can take place more efficiently at sea, which will make the use of equipment more efficient and thus more environmental friendly.

Website & more info

More info: http://www.nextocean.nl/.