The Evolution of Dynamic Positioning Technology
In the early days of dynamic positioning (DP) in the 1960s and 70s, commercial deepsea divers quickly realized the importance of their support vessel’s DP system. Their lives depended on it. If a vessel moved off position, divers would be at risk of being pulled along with it, leading to potentially dangerous situations.
Diver safety has always been a primary concern in the development of DP systems. One harrowing incident in the North Sea in 2012, involving diver Chris Lemons, highlighted the critical role of DP technology in ensuring the safety of marine personnel. Lemons survived a catastrophic failure of the DP system, where he found himself stranded nearly 100m underwater with no means of communication or oxygen supply. His miraculous rescue after over 30 minutes on the seabed underscores the importance of reliable DP systems in maritime operations.
The incident involving Lemons shed light on the vulnerabilities of DP technology, with the root cause being traced back to a single fault that disrupted the system’s internal data communications. This event prompted a reevaluation of DP system design and functionality to prevent such failures in the future.
An upcoming issue of Maritime Reporter magazine will delve into the latest advancements and innovations in DP technology, exploring the driving forces behind its evolution and the measures being taken to enhance safety and efficiency in maritime operations.
Based on a true story, the upcoming thriller film Last Breath, starring Woody Harrelson, Simu Liu, and Finn Cole, portrays the gripping tale of Chris Lemons’ harrowing ordeal and the heroic efforts to rescue him from the depths of the ocean. The film serves as a reminder of the risks faced by marine personnel and the crucial role of DP technology in ensuring their safety.
As technology continues to advance, the maritime industry must remain vigilant in its pursuit of enhanced safety measures and innovative solutions to mitigate risks and safeguard the lives of those working at sea. The evolution of DP technology stands as a testament to the industry’s commitment to continuous improvement and the protection of marine personnel in challenging environments.