(With extra pictures) An agreement has been signed between Wärtsilä and Cavotec to jointly develop the world's first combined induction charging and automatic mooring concept.
Wärtsilä has developed a wireless charging system based on inductive power transfer. Cavotec provides automated mooring systems for various types of vessels, as well as shore power and reel systems. Together, they have created an integrated wireless charging/mooring concept for use in Wärtsilä's ship designs.
Wireless Charging
Wireless charging eliminates the cable connection between the vessel and shore, thereby securing and facilitating safe connections and disconnections. It also reduces maintenance since wear and tear to physical connection lines is eliminated. Similarly, damage to electrical outlets caused by seawater, snow and ice is also avoided.
The charging station eliminates cable connections.
The new project's integrated system will be capable of transferring more than 1 MW of electrical energy. This is some 300 times more than that of current chargers used by electric cars.
Vaccuum-based Mooring System
Cavotec's mooring system is a vacuum-based automated mooring technology that eliminates the need for conventional mooring lines. Remote controlled vacuum pads recessed into, or mounted on the quayside, moor and release vessels in seconds.
Vacuum pads connect the charging station to the vessel.
By making wireless charging of ship batteries possible, the electrification of coastal shipping is enhanced, resulting in major reductions in harmful exhaust emissions. Wärtsilä has already launched an innovative ferry concept featuring wireless induction battery charging.
Picture: A pier mounted charging station provides safe and secure connections.
