Rotterdam, 21 December 2017, Press Release
Revolutionary invention by KOTUG
KOTUG first company to use drone technology for safer tug operations
KOTUG has applied for a patent to use drone technology in its tug operations, in its ambition to achieve safer and more efficient working conditions. This pioneering invention – using a drone to connect the towline to an assisted vessel – will drastically improve the safety margin of tug operations as this will avoid the need for manoeuvring in the so-called danger zone.
KOTUG is the first tugboat company that uses this technology: to deliver a messenger line to a predetermined location with object recognition software. Instead of picking up the heaving line of the assisted ship, the messenger line of the tug will be brought to the assisted ship in a more controlled manner. This will allow the tug to safely sail beside the assisted ship instead of in front of the assisted ship.
Conventionally, tugboat and crew position themselves in front of and close to the assisted vessel in order to grab the heaving line by hand. By doing so, the tug and crew position themselves in the danger zone, close and even under the (flared) bow of a vessel. A minor flaw in the operation can result in major injuries of the deck crew and/or damage to the tug and the assisted vessel.
A series of tests is scheduled to be performed by KOTUG for full operational use of this revolutionary technology for which standard operating procedures will be developed in conjunction with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
About KOTUG
KOTUG is a leading towage operator offering its innovative services to ports and terminals on a global scale. With a young and powerful fleet, its dedicated staff and well-trained crew KOTUG operates in a variety of markets including terminal towage, harbour towage, offshore operations and salvage operations. Headquartered in The Netherlands, KOTUG is active in Europe, Russia, Asia, Australia, Africa and the Caribbean and continues to expand its operations worldwide. Our long-standing knowledge is consolidated in KOTUG’s Maritime Excellence Center which provides training and consultancy. KOTUG is family-owned and firmly committed to the highest industry standards of health, safety, environment, quality and security. www.kotug.com
