CMA CGM and ABB Collaborate on Parametric Roll Algorithm

CMA CGM and ABB have joined forces to improve ship safety through the development of an advanced parametric roll algorithm. The algorithm will help container ships, ro-pax vessels and car carriers respond to parametric roll - a hard to predict and dangerous challenge. 

The new algorithm has been developed by CMA CGM and will be deployed in the ABB Ability™ OCTOPUS Marine Advisory system.

It is hoped that it will improve ship safety, with parametric rolling having been a safety issue for decades. It is a phenomenon that particularly affects large vessels such as container ships, ro-pax vessels, and car carriers. 

In short, parametric rolling results in these vessels experiencing large rolling motions in waves - and can cause threats to vessel, crew, and cargo safety. Indeed, parametric rolling has been blamed for numerous losses of containers overboard in recent years.

As per a statement released by ABB, the new algorithm will help as follows: 

‘By detecting and helping to prevent extreme parametric rolling, the new algorithm will help enhance operational safety by reducing the risk of accidents, vessel damage, and cargo loss at sea. 

By reducing the risk of cargo loss incidents at sea that can lead to oceanic pollution, it will help protect the marine environment. Preventing parametric roll incidents can also help avoid potential costs associated with repairs and cargo damage. 

Furthermore, through its integration into ABB’s OCTOPUS system, the solution will allow real-time monitoring and response, improving voyage efficiency and reducing downtime caused by adverse weather conditions’.

CMA CGM has announced that it will be deploying the solution across its global fleet. It will also be offering comprehensive training on the system for its crew. CMA CGM has also stated that it will make the training available for the wider shipping industry.

Commenting on the new parametric rolling solution, Emmanuel Delran, Vice President Group Operations, CMA CGM Group, said: 

“We are excited to collaborate with ABB on this parametric roll algorithm, a groundbreaking integration of the CMA CGM theoretical framework with the ABB Ability™ OCTOPUS Marine Advisory system.

This solution not only enhances safety and operational efficiency but also helps to minimise risks for cargo damage and loss at sea. This collaboration represents a major leap forward for the industry, enabling more efficient operations and safer voyages”.

Tomas Arhippainen, Head of Marine Service and Digital at ABB Marine & Ports, commented: 

“Recent development in the maritime sector has focused increasingly on safety and sustainability. Our partnership with CMA CGM on the parametric roll algorithm underscores our commitment to improving vessel safety and operational efficiency as well as contributing to environmental protection. By providing a tool that helps to mitigate the risks associated with parametric roll, we are taking a meaningful step forward in the global shipping industry”.

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