The OpenBridge open-source code library has been launched. This design system is engineered to create safer and more efficient workplaces across the international fleet by standardizing how humans interact with maritime technology.
OpenBridge is an open-source design framework and code library specifically developed to standardize the user interfaces (UI) of digital maritime technology.
By providing over 200 fully coded components on GitHub, the platform allows developers to create consistent, human-centered bridge systems that reduce human error and enhance operational safety.
Originally a research project from the Oslo School of Architecture and Design, it has now become a global industry standard used to harmonize displays across ships, engine rooms, and remote operations centers.
A Royal Launch
The launch of the OpenBridge open-source library is a transformative moment for maritime safety, and it is a milestone the industry celebrated this past Wednesday with a very special visit. The launch marks the transition of OpenBridge from a design guideline to an open-source ready-to-use code library.
We were honored to greet His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Norway, Haakon Magnus, and Prince Sverre Magnus to the launch event, where SEAM, Kongsberg, and Norwegian Electric Systems (NES) demonstrated how OpenBridge is being put into practice, while Maritime Robotics conducted a live demo of the technology in action.
We highlighted our milestone delivery of the world’s first OpenBridge-compliant bridge solution back in 2020 and engaged in a professional dialogue with the Crown Prince regarding the technical details of our Energy Power Management System (EPMS).
The discussion covered how these systems control power sources for battery and all-electric operations, the optimization of generators during hybrid operation, and how battery systems can replace rotary generators in DP2 operations for more efficient performance.
A Collaborative Effort for Increased Safety
What started as a design research project at the Oslo School of Architecture and Design has now matured into a comprehensive, ready-to-use code library on GitHub. With over 200 fully coded components, this initiative tackles the dangerous fragmentation of digital interfaces across the global fleet.
This collaboration has been instrumental in the design of our next-generation e-SEAMatic® platform, and we were proud to show the Royal House images of our ongoing project with Hagland Shipping, which is currently undergoing sea trials for the handover of the e-SEAMatic v4 EPMS. By implementing these design principles, e-SEAMatic® ensures standardized icons and layouts that allow crews to navigate complex processes with confidence.
The modern interface simplifies the user experience regardless of the vessel’s complexity by managing platform intricacies behind the scenes. Ultimately, our modular architecture is built on these open standards to ensure it can grow alongside future maritime innovations. Open innovation remains the key to a safer, greener maritime industry.
Explore the library and join the movement: https://github.com/OpenBridge
Image credit: Daniel Stubsjøen/AHO
