Unveiling Nautical Wonders in the Virtual Arena
A trailblazing innovation has been launched by Dutch shipbuilding company, Damen. They have crafted a virtual version of an under-construction Combat Support Ship, ‘Den Helder’, and delivered it to a division of the Dutch Ministry of Defense. The cutting-edge application of virtual reality (VR) enables crews to get acquainted with the ship even before setting foot on it.
Revolutionizing Learning and Training Methods
Damen Naval’s outstanding VR package grants the crew of the yet-to-be-delivered ‘Den Helder an exciting opportunity to familiarize themselves with the ship. This marks the first instance of Damen creating an entire VR replica of a ship in collaboration with the Royal Netherlands Navy. As explained by Damen Naval Project Director, Arjan Risseeuw, the once mandatory task of knowing a ship within 24 hours of boarding has taken an intriguing twist. Now, an impressive virtual walkthrough is possible, preparing the crew 24 hours ‘before’ setting foot onboard.
An Exhilarating Virtual Voyage
Thanks to the application of 3D design software, Cadmatic, the virtual ship offers a comprehensive replica of the original design down to its smallest detail. It includes everything from the steel structure, piping, and cableways, to the equipment and various spaces. This tech marvel equips the crew to step aboard the virtual ship and navigate through it, even as the physical one is under construction.
A Joint Venture in Technological Progress
In collaboration with the Ministry of Defense’s maritime simulation center, the VR version of the ‘Den Helder’ was developed and subsequently handed over to COMMIT, who further transferred the VR package to the Royal Netherlands Navy. The virtual ship now serves as a training module for the new crew, enabling them to find their bearings onboard even before encountering the ship in real life. This technology extends its usability beyond training, assisting maintenance engineers and security personnel alike.
Breaking Technological Boundaries
According to Damen Naval, this innovative project pushed the technical limitations on several occasions. Damen Naval’s Technical Specialist VR, Björn Mes, and his team overcame numerous challenges to realize this mammoth VR creation. Incorporating the toolchain, an in-house developed tool, was instrumental in automating segments of the VR development process, thereby accelerating its progress.
Sailing towards the Flashes of the Future
As stated by Damen, the Combat Support Ship, ‘Den Helder,’ is gradually taking shape. Anticipating sea trials in early 2024, the ship will be delivered to COMMIT later the same year and will be commissioned by the Royal Netherlands Navy in 2025. Meanwhile, the virtual model of the ship supplements the crews’ preparedness and operational efficiency, showing the transformative power of technology in the field of naval shipbuilding.
