DIVISION OFFSHORE & MARINE

DYNAMIC POSITIONING

Dynamic positioning is a method for maintaining a vessel in the same position above the seabed using the vessel's own propellers and without using an anchor. The positioning system collects data on wind, waves, currents, direction and the vessel's current position. Through advanced engineering cybernetics, the system calculates how much motor power should be applied to the various propellers and thrusters to keep the vessel in a constant position and ensure smooth operations.

KONGSBERG's system for dynamic positioning (DP) is one of the Group's most important and most renowned products; it had its breakthrough in the mid-1970s. Since then, KONGSBERG has sold about 2 000 DP systems. In 2007 alone, the Group delivered approx. 250 systems to shipyards and shipowners all over the world. Shipyards are KONGSBERG's main customers, and shipowners are the second largest customer group.

DP systems are now used on a wide variety of vessels, from drilling and production vessels to cruise ships. KONGSBERG delivers all types of DP systems. The systems are designed to reduce fuel consumption as well as wear and tear on the propulsion system, and to be safe. Supply ships for the oil and gas industry are among the vessels that use dynamic positioning. A collision between a supply vessel and an oil platform could be catastrophic. A DP system ensures that the vessel maintains a safe, correct distance from the platform.

From its origins in the North Sea, the international market has developed, especially in South Korea, China, India, the US and Brazil. 2007 was a record year for dynamic positioning contracts and the outlook for 2008 is also good. The order books are filled, and the backlog is substantial. KONGSBERG enjoys a leading, global position, and it expects to maintain this strong position in future.

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