The ice load data acquired and produced in WP 8 will be used to validate the earlier developed rules and where necessary to propose modifications. Six different classification societies and the Canadian Coast Guard have rules for structural design of Polar vessels. In order to unify these rules, a process of harmonisation was started under an IMO umbrella in 1993. The liaison between IACS and the various classification societies is given by Lloyd's Register. AARI WP 10 Remote Service and Maintenance Testing of existing methods for remote service and maintenance and to give recommendations for further development of these methods for the Arctic conditions.
Modern vessels have in their propulsion and navigation systems a lot of highly developed technology.
On the other hand the transportation economics require smaller crews with less specialised personnel. On vessels operating in remote areas with no supporting infrastructure this creates problems with service and maintenance of the high-tech systems. Today's telecommunication systems offer possibilities to handle the diagnostic and service functions without having the specialists onboard the vessels. The capabilities of these systems will be tested during the voyage. Wartsila NSD, HUT Automation Lab.