CANopen Communication Drives Smarter Hydrogen Vessel Control

As net-zero and green shipping trends accelerate, hydrogen-powered vessels are becoming an important clean energy application. Hydrogen fuel cells convert hydrogen into electricity with high efficiency, offering zero emissions, low noise, and reliable energy performance.
In this case, the vessel uses fuel cells as its core power source, with multiple devices working together for smart control and stable operation. To meet the demands of the marine environment, the system required reliable communication, intuitive HMI operation, and efficient remote management.

Challenges in Hydrogen Vessel Control

1. Harsh Marine Environments
   Vessels operate in high-humidity, high-salinity, and high-vibration environments. Control equipment must remain durable and reliable for long-term operation. The system also required an HMI with a refined appearance and clear screen design to improve usability and overall system quality.
2. Complex System Integration
   A hydrogen power system includes sensors, controllers, fuel cells, motors, and actuators. These devices must exchange data in real time and work together smoothly. CANopen communication was needed to support fast and reliable device integration.
3. Manual Inspection Risks
   Because vessels are constantly moving, wired network deployment is difficult, and equipment checks often rely on manual inspection. This increases maintenance workload and may expose personnel to safety risks. Remote monitoring was needed to view equipment status and operating data in real time.

Weintek’s Solution

The system adopted three cMT X Series HMIs with a 4G network module, combining CANopen communication and remote management for a more reliable and easier-to-manage hydrogen vessel control system.

1. Intuitive HMI Operation
   Three 10-inch cMT X Series HMIs were used to control one motor and two fuel cells. With a 16.7M-color display and quad-core processor, cMT X smoothly presents key operating parameters, real-time status, and monitoring screens, making operation more intuitive. Its refined screen design also enhances the overall equipment appearance and user experience, meeting both functional and visual needs in industrial applications.
2. Seamless CANopen Integration
   Weintek HMIs support multiple industrial communication protocols, making it easy to integrate CANopen bus devices and motor control systems. With real-time data exchange, the system improves operating reliability while reducing future integration and maintenance costs.
3. Efficient Remote Maintenance
   The HMI and 4G network module quickly create an on-site network environment on the vessel. With EasyAccess 2.0, managers can remotely view system status and equipment data from a PC, tablet, or smartphone. Even while the vessel is in operation, engineers can perform remote monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance, improving service efficiency and management convenience.

Outcomes and Benefits

1. Easier Operation
   Integrated HMI operation and remote monitoring make system control simpler and more intuitive. A single operator can monitor and manage the system more easily, reducing manpower needs.
2. Stronger System Reliability
   CANopen communication improves coordination between devices, helping the hydrogen power system operate more reliably and efficiently.
3. Lower Inspection Risks
   Remote management helps teams monitor equipment status and detect issues in real time. This reduces manual inspection, improves safety, speeds up response, and lowers downtime risks and maintenance costs.
4. Smarter Green Shipping
   The solution combines clean energy with smart management, showing how hydrogen energy and industrial automation can support the future of smart shipping.