Chartwell Marine and Zelim design unmanned rescue vessel
By:
Tom Russell
21/09/2021
Zelim
Zelim, a start-up developing
a lifesaving system for offshore energy, has partnered with naval architect
Chartwell Marine to deliver a remotely operated rescue vessel. The "Survivor
Class" vessel will incorporate search technology & remote operations.
Zelim and Chartwell’s "Survivor Class" unmanned rescue vessel
aims to introduce a new stage in the rescue chain, rapidly recovering any
man overboard (MOB) and providing them with an accessible safe haven from
the debilitating effects of cold-water immersion, where they can await
evacuation to shore.
The vessel has been designed ‘casualty first’, with features to address
limited mobility challenges, such as a rescue conveyor for recovering MOBs
from the water, easy-open door handles, an air-conditioned cabin, and a
helicopter pick up zone. The companies stated that, as an unmanned, remotely
operated vessel, deployment time is reduced while also limiting collateral
risk for rescue personnel.
The consortium secured Innovate UK funding on two separate occasions, accelerating
project timelines to complete the preliminary design phase. The last tranche
of funding is being used to deliver the full design and shipyard tender,
build oversight and testing.
The vessel will be mounted onto offshore structures and deployed into the
water via a 25m free fall following MOB or helicopter downing incidents.
In an effort to maximise safety in severe weather conditions, Chartwell
Marine designed a hull form to allow the vessel to operate in significant
wave heights of 4.5m. The company stated it had been verified with extensive
model testing conducted by independent naval architect Seaspeed Marine
Consulting.
Andy Page, Managing Director, Chartwell Marine, said: “Designing the
Survivor Class gave us a great opportunity to apply our offshore wind expertise
to new challenges, such as free-fall water entry and casualty recovery.
For example, the two waterjets will activate prior to contact with the
water to stop the vessel drifting backwards into the turbine. Zelim has
shown strong leadership in making offshore wind a safer industry, and we
are excited to see where the partnership goes next.”
Sam Mayall, Founder, Zelim, said: “As offshore wind continues to scale
up to meet the growing global demand for clean energy, ensuring the safety
of seafarers and technicians is critical. That’s why we are working with
Chartwell Marine and other industry partners to develop a cohesive offshore
survival system, beyond the vessel itself, engaging with operators and
regulators to make sure it is fit to save lives in some of the most challenging
conditions imaginable.”