Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) says it has collaborated with shipping company Evergreen to develop and install virtual reality (VR) solutions at the Evergreen Seafarer Training Centre to assist seafarers in learning how to operate equipment used on 16,500 TEU container ships.

The South Korean shipbuilder's VR solutions are designed to train seafarers who operate methanol dual-fuel propulsion vessels within a virtual space to help them learn about the equipment prior to operating the vessel.

Samsung Heavy Industries claims it has become imperative for shipping companies to implement training programs for seafarers to operate new equipment due to stringent environmental regulations and a surge in orders for ships running on more eco-friendly fuels.

The company has developed a program that facilitates direct inspections of areas such as engine rooms and bunkering stations in virtual spaces. This is achieved through VR solutions implemented using 3D design data, eliminating the need to board ships physically.

According to Samsung Heavy Industries, the VR solutions enable seafarers to operate equipment with more complex systems than those found on conventional diesel engine ships. The solutions also offer repetitive training for emergency situations, such as fuel leaks or fire onboard ships.

The company claims the technology is anticipated to mitigate operational risks and reduce maintenance costs associated with malfunctions or misuse of equipment.

"VR solutions that are tailored to customer needs will play a crucial role in enhancing the operational stability of eco-friendly ships," said Dong-yeon Lee, vice president and director of Samsung Heavy Industries' Ship & Offshore Research Institute.

"Samsung Heavy Industries will develop a range of customized solutions by leveraging our technical expertise in VR."

The announcement comes as the shipping industry faces increasing pressure to adopt alternative fuels to meet decarbonization targets, with methanol emerging as one of the preferred options for container shipping operations.