Re-inventing automation UX on board

Marine, too, is facing the digital transformation. To further improve usability, more sophisticated solutions are playing a relevant role when enhancing processes and freeing up human resources for more demanding tasks. 

You are able to see the complete situation outside the engine room with a tablet or your own mobile phone.

The new Valmet DNA User Interface (DNA UI) extends the use of the automation system beyond the traditional engine room. Now, information can be shared on board with a secure web-based solution. From the very start, cybersecurity has been integral to the design process. 

The new Valmet DNA User Interface (DNA UI) extends the use of the automation system beyond the traditional engine room.

“When implementing new methods for the user interface, you have to have profound knowledge of the business procedures and requests. And this is where our expertise lies. Based on cooperating with customers and having the best professionals to work for us in R&D, we have been able to find the most relevant ways to enhance onboard operations,” explains John Weierud, Director, Marine Automation at Valmet.  

New intuitive user experience  

By adding a more intuitive approach, Valmet has raised the value of its Valmet DNA Automation System and improved the user experience for critical navigation at sea.  

The data on screens is structured and visualized in a new way, making the workflow more intuitive. The web-based solution helps the officer, for instance, receive process information on the bridge, or the chief engineer can access data about the air-conditioning system from a tablet.  

The data on screens is structured and visualized in a new way, making the workflow more intuitive.

“Wherever you are on board, you are able to see the complete situation outside the engine room with a tablet or your own mobile phone. Using the new user interface minimizes operational risks and reduces incorrect decisions,” says Lars Edin Svaasand, Engineering, Manager, Marine Automation at Valmet. 

Business value for customers taken seriously  

Harmonized screens, multiple displays with different hierarchy information levels, touch screens, focused information, cybersecurity – these all lead to enhanced operational work and higher productivity.  

“Cooperation with experienced marine staff is a valuable way to create something new. However, there is a dilemma – how to get your customers to request something they have not yet even realized they need? When developing new features, we have to go beyond the traditional requests. It seems that we have succeeded there, as plenty of customers have contacted us to discuss the details,” says Svaasand.  

By adding a more intuitive approach, Valmet has raised the value of its Valmet DNA automation system and improved the user experience for critical navigation at sea.  

Text Soili Städter