Japan-based classification society ClassNK has granted an approval in principle (AIP) to Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) and Airseas SAS for automated kite system called Seawing.
The AIP was awarded based on the Guidelines for Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems for Ships and related regulations.
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An announcement by both companies said that it will support the vessel propulsion, using natural wind power via its dynamic flight.
It added: “A simple switch launches or recovers the kite, which unfolds, operates and refolds autonomously.
“The Seawing system collects and analyses meteorological and oceanic data in real time, then adapts its flight to this information in order to optimise its performance, as well as to ensure maximum safety.”
In September last year, ClassNK issued its Guidelines for Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems for Ships to contribute to the safety integrity and design of technology and ships.
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By GlobalDataClassNK gave the approval for the system after reviewing the design according to the necessary international conventions, ClassNK rules and other guidelines.
ClassNK said that it will support the implementation of new technologies as a third-party certification body.
In May, ClassNK granted an AIP to the concept design of an autonomous ship framework.
The AIP was awarded to Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line) and MTI Co (MTI).
In April, ClassNK granted an AIP to the concept design of a 180,000dwt liquid petroleum gas (LPG) dual-fuelled bulk carrier.
The AIP was given to Imabari Shipbuilding, which developed the bulk carrier in partnership with Mitsubishi Shipbuilding.
