Dallas — Airbus, in partnership with AirSeas, an Airbus start-up, has begun testing SeaWing technology to reduce the CO2 emissions of its operations.
SeaWing is an automatic kite that uses parafoil technology.Intended to tow large ships, the manufacturer tested the system on its own “roll-on/roll-off” vessel that transports large aircraft parts between production sites in Europe and the United States.
SeaWing starts by simply flipping the switch. The kites then deploy, deploy and operate autonomously, with systems collecting and analyzing weather and ocean data to optimize performance. When the kite is no longer needed, the Seawing automatically folds and retrieves to the ship, ready for the next deployment.
The system was developed by Airsies, a small Airbus startup that combines Airbus’ knowledge of aerodynamics, flight controls, systems and materials with its own maritime expertise.
The company expects the system to reduce Airbus’ overall industrial environmental footprint by 8,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, while reducing transportation costs by around 20%.
the trial was held on board Ville de Bordeaux, It was chartered by Airbus during its transatlantic voyage. SeaWing flies at an altitude of about 200 meters and comes in both 250 square meter and her 500 square meter versions.
Airbus, Airsies
AirSeas CEO and founder Vincent Bernatets, who previously worked in management, marketing and after-sales at Airbus, said: , and business development positions. “The installation of this first ro-ro vessel paves the way for further pioneering deals on container ships, bulk carriers and ferries.”
According to an Airbus press release, SeaWing is designed for rapid integration into virtually any commercial vessel currently in service. Its design allows for installation and maintenance during regular stopovers at ports of call.
according to GCaptain.comAirSeas has received five firm orders and 51 options for the SeaWing system from Japanese shipowner K-Line, which owns the fifth largest fleet in the world.
Featured Image: Airbus
