Hanwha Ocean has achieved a major breakthrough in maritime technology. On July 12, the company proudly announced that it had received Approval in Principle (AIP) from the Korean Register (KR) for its innovative “Smart Lighting Control System” for ships.
This landmark development marks a significant step in enhancing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in the shipbuilding industry.
The AIP certification is no small feat. It involves a stringent evaluation process that assesses the feasibility and reliability of new technologies or designs in the maritime sector. This approval confirms that Hanwha Ocean’s Smart Lighting Control System meets the high standards required for marine structures, ensuring its reliability and effectiveness.
The Smart Lighting Control System is designed to adjust illuminance flexibly according to different zones on the ship. In internal corridors, motion detection sensors activate the lights only when there is human traffic, significantly reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
In the engine room, the system applies illuminance control based on time, reducing illuminance to just 5% of the usual level outside working hours. Common areas such as dining rooms are equipped with switches that allow direct control of illuminance, providing a wider range of choices for users.
For the first time in the shipbuilding industry, a central lighting control program has been installed on ships to enhance convenience.
This program, located in the wheelhouse, allows for individual or group control of the lights installed on the ship. It also enables the monitoring of light status, detection of fault alarms, and provides a recording function for these events.
An economic analysis of the Smart Lighting Control System, based on a 174,000㎥ LNG carrier, revealed impressive results. Annual carbon dioxide emissions were reduced by up to 45% compared to existing lighting systems.
Additionally, fuel and power consumption decreased by 44%, and the lifespan of the lights increased by 48% due to optimized illuminance.
Seoh Haeng-myeong, Executive Director of Hanwha Ocean, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, “It is significant that we have secured the first eco-friendly technology solution related to lighting fixtures for ships at a domestic shipyard in line with the strengthening of global environmental regulations.” He added, “We will continue to actively develop eco-friendly products and technologies that can meet customer demands.
This development follows a business agreement signed in February between Hanwha Ocean, Daeyang Electric, and KR for the joint development of smart lighting control systems for ships. The collaboration has been focused on securing the necessary technologies to bring this innovative solution to fruition.
Looking ahead, Hanwha Ocean plans to integrate the Smart Lighting Control System with its own smart ship platform, HS4, to provide integrated control. This integration aims to further enhance the efficiency and convenience of ship operations, aligning with the company’s commitment to developing eco-friendly products and technologies.
The benefits of smart lighting systems are not limited to the maritime industry. They are gaining traction in various sectors for their potential to improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs.
These systems use advanced sensors and controls to adjust lighting based on occupancy, time of day, and other factors, ensuring optimal energy use.
In commercial buildings, smart lighting systems can significantly lower electricity bills by reducing lighting costs, which typically account for a substantial portion of energy expenses. For example, a study by the U.S. Department of Energy found that smart lighting could reduce energy use in commercial buildings by up to 50%.
Moreover, smart lighting systems contribute to enhanced safety and comfort. They provide better illumination in workspaces, improve visibility, and create a more pleasant environment.
In residential settings, smart lighting can be integrated with home automation systems to offer convenience and energy savings.
In conclusion, Hanwha Ocean’s Smart Lighting Control System represents a significant advancement in maritime technology. By enhancing energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and improving operational convenience, this innovative system sets a new standard for eco-friendly solutions in the shipbuilding industry.
As smart lighting technology continues to evolve, its applications and benefits will undoubtedly expand, making it a vital component of sustainable development across various sectors.
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