ABS and Siemens Digital Industries Software (DISW) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to speed up the digital transformation of maritime classification, covering everything from ship design to construction. The partnership will center on developing product lifecycle management (PLM) technologies to improve how ships are designed, built, and managed. The goal is to make operations more efficient, keep data reliable, and ensure everything stays compliant with regulations through every stage of a vessel’s life.
Under the MOU, ABS and Siemens DISW plan to work together on several projects. These include applying Class Rules within 3D design, running model-based verification, and bringing digital twin technology into everyday use. The agreement also calls for secure data sharing between ship designers and classification bodies, along with joint research programs and workshops to push digital progress across the maritime sector.
The effort will bring together the ABS PLM platform, ABS Freedom™, and Siemens DISW’s Xcelerator platform to help meet industry regulations. A major focus will be using the digital twin and simulation tools from both platforms to strengthen compliance and streamline classification in the marine field.
“As a global leader in maritime classification services, ABS is proud to join forces with Siemens, a world leader in AI-powered PLM software, to develop collaborative interfaces that use enhanced data-driven tools for design decision making and digitally streamline our Class operations,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer.
“As the classification process is an integral part of ship design and building workflow, we understand the high importance of it. That is why we are delighted to sign an MOU with ABS to explore and establish a strategic collaboration aimed at accelerating and adapting the digital transformation of maritime classification processes,” said Joe Bohman, Executive Vice President, PLM Products, Siemens Digital Industries Software.
