ABOUT THE PROJECT
What is HACCS?
The Hull Antifouling and Continuous Cleaning System (HACCS) is a research and innovation project focused on developing a novel system that continuously removes marine growth from ship hulls while vessels remain in operation.
The project addresses one of the major challenges in maritime transportation: biofouling. Marine growth on hull surfaces increases hydrodynamic resistance, resulting in higher fuel consumption, increased operating costs, and greater greenhouse gas emissions.
HACCS aims to create a practical, environmentally friendly solution that maintains hull cleanliness, improves fuel efficiency, and contributes to global decarbonization goals.
Expected Benefits:
• Reduced fuel consumption
• Lower CO₂ emissions
• Improved vessel performance
• Reduced spread of invasive marine species
• Protection of marine ecosystems
OBJECTIVES
Scientific and Technological Objectives
1. Develop and validate a transverse strip cleaning mechanism.
2. Investigate and optimize brush materials and robotic trolley design.
3. Develop an AI-based image processing system for hull condition assessment.
4. Design and validate an integrated proof-of-concept demonstrator.
Project Goals:
• Maintain ship hull cleanliness continuously.
• Improve energy efficiency.
• Reduce environmental impact.
• Support sustainable shipping practices.
• Advance research in marine robotics and artificial intelligence.
TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
Innovative HACCS Concept
HACCS introduces a new approach to hull cleaning by integrating a permanent cleaning system directly into vessel operations.
Key Components:
Transverse Cleaning Strip: A moving strip positioned across the hull capable of travelling along the vessel.
Robotic Cleaning Trolley: An autonomous cleaning unit equipped with specialized brushes designed to remove biofouling without damaging protective coatings.
AI-Based Monitoring: A camera system and machine-learning algorithms continuously monitor hull condition and cleaning effectiveness.
Smart Operation: The system adapts cleaning activities according to hull conditions and operational requirements.
Environmental Impact
The HACCS concept contributes to:
• Reduced fuel consumption
• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
• Prevention of invasive species transfer
• More sustainable maritime operations