PRAXIS AUTOMATION

Praxis Automation

Ship Automation, Navigation, Electric Propulsion

High-end products for high-end ships. Praxis Automation Technology, founded in 1965 in The Netherlands, began with manufacturing and supplying alarm and monitoring systems for sea going vessels. During the years, their experience combined with extensive research, enabled the company to offer complete solutions in the ship automation, navigation and electric propulsion equipment field. Today they manufacture the second generation of the “Mega-Guard” Ship automation, Navigation and Electric propulsion system.

Mega-Guard Ship
Automation

Mega-Guard
Navigation

Mega-Guard Electric Propulsion

Official Service & Distribution Partner

Cullys operates as an authorised distributor and service provider for Praxis Automation in Western Australia, supporting alarm monitoring, valve control, and power management systems. Based at our Henderson facility, we deliver installation, commissioning, diagnostics, and lifecycle support using genuine Praxis equipment. As a certified service partner, we provide expert servicing, warranty assistance, and direct access to manufacturer-backed solutions, ensuring safe and reliable vessel operations. Whether you need system integration, fault diagnosis, or ongoing maintenance, Cullys delivers dependable Praxis support across WA.

Mega-Guard Ship Automation

Vessel Management System

The Mega-Guard VMS is an advanced, modular ship automation platform tailored for medium to large vessels. Designed to meet a wide range of automation needs, it supports functions such as:

Alarm and monitoring systems
Valve, pump, and fan control
Cargo operations and tank gauging
Fuel oil transfer, automatic ballasting, anti-heeling, firefighting, and conning

Its modular architecture allows extension through additional Mega-Guard modules, including Power Management, Propulsion Control, Dynamic Positioning, Integrated Navigation, Heading Control, Watch Alarm (BNWAS), Navigation Light Control, Fire Alarm, CCTV, Ship Performance Monitoring, and Fleet Management solutions. It also accommodates Green Propulsion components like electric motors, steerable pods, inverters, and energy storage systems.

Built for reliability, the VMS features ruggedized operator workstations (10″–86″ touchscreen, HD/UHD), control processors with multiple protocol interfaces, and operator panels with local logic and display. It supports redundant Ethernet topologies and IEC-61131-3 compliant PLC programming.

Type-approved by all major classification societies—including Lloyd’s, DNV-GL, RINA, ABS, and more—Mega-Guard is recognized for its reliability and performance across commercial, yacht, and naval vessel applications.

Power Management System

Praxis’s Mega-Guard PMS fully automates the power plant of a vessel—handling diesel engine control, generator synchronization, protective shutdowns, and safety logic—on a per-generator-module basis for maximum reliability. It’s supplied as a complete, plug-and-play solution for low-voltage switchboards up to 690 VAC. Operation is via a responsive touchscreen (5.7″ or 8″) with tactile push-buttons, displaying key parameters like voltage, current, frequency, and power, and enabling intuitive navigation across settings. Each generator module comprises a PMS Operator Panel, a PMS Controller (DIN-rail mounted), and an interlinking I/O cable—all powered by independent ARM microprocessors for resilient and flexible control.

Fleet Management System

Praxis’s Fleet Management System (FMS), powered by the Internet Ship View (ISV) platform, transforms onboard ship automation into real-time, shore-based intelligence. A dedicated Marine PC with ISV software integrates seamlessly with a vessel’s alarm, monitoring, and control systems, transmitting operational data securely via internet connectivity.

This allows operators to gain complete visibility across their fleet, from high-level overviews down to detailed vessel performance. Fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, tank levels, speed, and position can all be tracked and compared through intuitive fleet, vessel, and map views. The system also simplifies compliance with automated reporting, including IMO MRV-compliant fuel and emission summaries, while enabling performance benchmarking across different voyages or vessel types.

Built with security and reliability in mind, ISV incorporates dual-login authentication and supports remote commissioning and troubleshooting by Praxis service engineers, ensuring continuous system availability and support.

Key Benefits:

Real-time visibility of entire fleet and individual vessels
Monitoring of fuel, emissions, tank levels, speed, and position
Automated reporting, including IMO MRV compliance
Performance benchmarking across voyages and vessel types
Secure access with dual-login authentication
Remote support, commissioning, and troubleshooting by Praxis and Cullys

CCTV Video Distribution

Praxis’s Mega-Guard CCTV Video Distribution system enables onboard surveillance by integrating high-definition camera feeds into the Mega-Guard Operator Workstations via a secure, redundant Ethernet network. The system uses a network video recorder (NVR) with Power over Ethernet (PoE) to store footage—enabling both real-time and playback viewing directly on workstation interfaces, which can also overlay live video onto system mimic diagrams. Operator panels offer full control over pan, tilt, and zoom functions. Cameras are available in IP dome models (with integrated pan-tilt-zoom), bullet-style (zoom function), and can be selected for indoor, outdoor, or underwater applications. Additional features include built-in heating for condensation prevention, windshield wipers and washers for lens cleaning, infrared night vision, and panoramic 180° or 360° viewing options.

Key Benefits:

Seamless integration of video feeds into shipboard automation displays
High-definition (minimum 2 MP) imaging with clear visual fidelity
Operator control over pan, tilt, and zoom functionality
Resilient PoE NVR with secure data storage and redundant Ethernet connectivity
Versatile camera options for various environments (indoor, outdoor, underwater)

Ship Performance Monitor

The Mega-Guard Ship Performance Monitor (SPM) is a sophisticated system designed to provide vessel operators with detailed, real-time insights into ship performance. Displayed on an Operator Workstation, the SPM accurately measures and presents key metrics—such as fuel consumption, power output, speed, and distance travelled—to help captains and engineers assess efficiency and address maintenance needs proactively. It also calculates trip-based performance data, enabling comparison against historical voyages for informed decision-making. Ideal for vessels operating under IMO’s SEEMP (Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan), SPM is available either as a standalone solution or seamlessly integrated into the larger Mega-Guard Vessel Management System.

Key Benefits:

Tracks continuous and trip-based fuel consumption, power, torque, speed, and distance
Provides normalized metrics—fuel per nautical mile and remaining days of fuel
Enables historical comparison for hull resistance trend analysis and maintenance planning
Supports data retrieval via USB or Ethernet for easy analysis and record-keeping
Flexible deployment: stand-alone system or fully integrated within the VMS architecture

Fire Alarm System

Addressable Fire Alarm System

Praxis’s Mega-Guard Addressable Fire Alarm System (FAS) delivers advanced, modular fire detection tailored for marine applications. Supporting up to 8 detection loops with as many as 120 detectors per loop, the system can monitor up to 480 addressable devices. Each detector is uniquely identified, enabling precise fault location and fast response.

A 5.7″ touchscreen Operator Panel—available in rugged metal for commercial/naval use or sleek glass for mega-yachts—provides intuitive control, with dual-level access for crew and authorized personnel. The FAS controller and panel are linked via a single I/O cable, and redundant power supplies (19–32 V DC) ensure uninterrupted operation.

Key Benefits:

Modular design for up to 480 addressable detectors
EN54-2 compliant and type-approved by major classification societies
Touchscreen operator panel with secure, multi-level access
Dual power supply inputs for maximum reliability

Conventional Fire Alarm System

Praxis also offers a Conventional Fire Alarm System, designed for smaller vessels or applications requiring straightforward fire detection. This system provides reliable monitoring with individually wired detectors and easy integration into onboard safety systems. It offers the same build quality and marine compliance as the addressable system, but with simplified architecture for cost-effective deployment.

Key Benefits:

Ideal for smaller vessels and straightforward installations
Simple, loop-based wiring with robust marine-grade components
Fully type-approved and compliant with marine safety standards
Cost-effective alternative to addressable systems

Engine Control System Refit

Praxis’s Mega-Guard Engine Control System Refit is a modern replacement solution for aging or obsolete engine control units, designed to extend the lifecycle and reliability of diesel engines. Built on proven Mega-Guard architecture, the refit package replaces outdated cabinets with a compact, steel-framed ECS cabinet that reuses existing sensors and wiring where possible, reducing downtime and costs. The system integrates advanced monitoring and safety functions, offering both local and remote control, automatic protection features, and seamless compatibility with propulsion and vessel management systems.

Key Benefits:

Extends engine lifecycle through modernised, reliable control systems
Reuses existing sensors and wiring to minimise refit time and costs
Integrated safety functions including automatic overspeed and emergency shutdown
Advanced monitoring for alarms, load response, and diagnostic functions
Local and remote engine start/stop with set-point control
Fully compatible with Mega-Guard Propulsion and Vessel Management Systems

Mega-Guard Navigation

Propulsion Control System

The Mega-Guard Propulsion Control System (PCS) is a modular, high-performance solution for remote engine and thruster control across all vessel types—from small yachts to commercial and naval ships. Designed for seamless operation, PCS enables intuitive remote manipulation of propulsion via bridge-mounted Control Levers, integrating features such as RPM/pitch indication, electronic governor control, telegraph interfacing, and comprehensive engine safety logic. Steerable (azimuth) thrusters are fully supported, and the system scales up to incorporate electric propulsion components, including GreenMotor, steerable PODs, and energy storage for full-electric or hybrid-powered applications.
Praxis Automation

Key Benefits:

Modular and scalable design—suitable for a wide range of propulsion configurations and ship types
Praxis Automation
Full remote control via bridge or ECR—supporting RPM/pitch adjustments, start/stop, reversing, and safety interlocks
Robust hardware components—includes flush-mounted Control Levers, Operator Panels with built-in PLC and touchscreens, and compact PCS Controllers
Redundant Ethernet network—operator panels and controllers interconnected in a loop topology for high reliability
Optional extensions—integrates with electric propulsion solutions, including motors, steerable pods, and energy storage systems

Dynamic Positioning System

The Mega-Guard Dynamic Positioning System (DP) autonomously maintains a vessel’s position and heading using thrusters, guided by inputs from position reference systems, gyrocompasses, wind sensors, and motion reference units. It offers features like Auto-Track mode for low-speed navigation along operator-defined routes. Factory-calibrated using ship models and simulators, it delivers precise positioning—within 0.1 m—backed by field-proven, solid-state hardware.

Key Benefits:

Precise automatic position control (±10 cm accuracy)
Configured and tested before delivery for rapid deployment
Robust, reliable architecture using only solid-state components
Trusted across diverse vessel types and globally supported

BNWAS Watch Alarm System

The Mega-Guard BNWAS monitors bridge activity to detect operator incapacitation and prevent accidents. Using a user-friendly 5.7-inch touchscreen and PIR sensors, it resets via button press or motion detection. Activation modes include Watch On, Watch Auto On, and Watch Stand-by. Escalating alarms notify backup officers and crew if no response is received. The system features dual power supply for redundancy, classification approvals, and an NMEA-0183 interface for VDR connectivity.

Key Benefits:

Monitors bridge operator alertness across multiple activation modes
Escalating alarm system enhances onboard safety
Dual-redundant power supplies for maximum reliability
Certified and compliant with marine safety standards

Navigation Light Control

Praxis’s Navigation Light Control System (NLC) manages up to 48 navigation lamps, offering both main and spare outputs. Lamps can be individually controlled or grouped (e.g., underway, towing). A user-friendly 5.7-inch touchscreen panel operates the system, which includes automatic backup lamp activation, redundant power supplies, and support for LEDs and bulbs under IMO Colreg 72 standards.

Key Benefits:

Controls up to 48 lamps with automatic failover capability
Intuitive touchscreen for individual or grouped lamp control
Redundant DC power ensures continuous operation
IMO Colreg 72 compliant across vessel types and lamp ranges

Wiper Control System

The Wiper Control System (WCS) allows centralized management of navigation bridge windshield wipers. Integrated with Mega-Guard automation, the WCS provides a panel-mounted control interface for wiper operation—enhancing bridge visibility during adverse weather. It integrates seamlessly and is built with the same rugged, modular hardware architecture as other Mega-Guard systems.

Key Benefits:

Centralized bridge control for wiper operation
Seamless integration with other Mega-Guard systems
Rugged design with standard modular components for reliability

Mega-Guard Electric Propulsion

Energy Management system

The Mega-Guard VMS is an advanced, modular ship automation platform tailored for medium to large vessels. Designed to meet a wide range of automation needs, it supports functions such as:

Alarm and monitoring systems
Valve, pump, and fan control
Cargo operations and tank gauging
Fuel oil transfer, automatic ballasting, anti-heeling, firefighting, and conning

GreenBattery Container

The Mega-Guard GreenBattery Container is a shipboard energy storage module designed per class rules for safe battery rooms—complete with built-in fire detection, extinguishing systems, fire blocking, and integrated temperature regulation. Offered in two variants:

AC version delivers up to 1 MW AC output and up to 2 MWh storage, configured within a standard 20 ft container;
DC version manages up to 2.4 MWh at 960 VDC and 1,250 A charge/discharge.
Battery modules (GreenBatteries) are housed in GreenRacks and controlled via a GreenBMS for safe operation and easy maintenance.

Key Benefits:

Fully compliant with marine battery room class rules—fire-safe, climate-controlled
High-capacity energy storage—up to 2.4 MWh in one container
Compact, modular design delivers power generation or backup capabilities
Easy access racks and remote monitoring via GreenBMS

Electric Steerable POD propulsor

The Mega-Guard Electric Steerable POD, or GreenPod, is a compact, highly efficient thruster ideal for space-conscious engine rooms. Featuring a permanent-magnet electric motor (50 kW–600 kW) and low-profile design, it’s engineered for “fit-and-forget” installation. Up to two steering motors provide reliable 360° maneuverability. Controlled by GreenInverters and integrated via DC Bus and Ethernet, the system ensures simplified installation and high efficiency.

Key Benefits:

Compact “fit-and-forget” design saves engine room space
High-efficiency permanent-magnet motor supports green operations
Integrated steering motors for full directional control
Simplified installation with onboard GreenInverter control modules

GreenInverter

The Mega-Guard GreenInverter is a compact, high-power inverter capable of handling diverse functions—from driving electric propulsion motors to charging batteries and generating AC grid power. It supports DC Bus connections up to 1,000 VDC and power outputs ranging from 50 kW to 3,000 kW. With onboard PLC controls, Ethernet connectivity, multiple I/O ports, and four-quadrant motor control software, it enables advanced motor control and safe operation.
Key Benefits:

Versatile: handles propulsion drive, battery charging, and grid power generation
Broad capacity: scalable up to 3 MW systems
Intelligent control: built-in PLC, real-time monitoring, emergency stop, and redundancy
Flexible connectivity: Ethernet and multiple port options for integration

GreenBattery

The Mega-Guard GreenBattery is a LiFePO₄ (LFP) marine energy storage module, offering high safety, long life, and compact form factor. Available in 10 kWh standard and 12 kWh (3C) fast-charge versions, it uses a GreenBMS for cell balancing, charge monitoring, and safety. Multiple strings (up to 10 batteries at 96 VDC) can be paralleled (up to 120 strings) to scale capacity from 40 kWh to 20 MWh.

Key Benefits:

Safe LiFePO₄ chemistry with long cycle life and compact footprint
Efficient operation: natural or liquid cooling options available
Highly scalable: stackable for very large systems (up to 20 MWh)
Integrated BMS ensures safe, balanced, and monitored battery strings

GreenGenerator

Praxis’s Mega-Guard GreenGenerator (DC Bus Generator) pairs a modern diesel engine with a permanent-magnet generator; a GreenInverter (HPI) converts the output directly to the vessel’s DC bus and also handles engine control (start/stop, RPM set-point, monitoring). Units are available 140–400 kW in multiple DC bus voltages (≈384–960 VDC), can be paralleled for redundancy, and are offered in light- and heavy-duty variants. The HPI includes a 5″ local touchscreen, emergency stop, and dual cooling—delivering a compact, efficient DC source for hybrid/electric propulsion architectures.

Key benefits

High efficiency & compact footprint via permanent-magnet generator and direct flywheel coupling.
Praxis Automation
Integrated control & conversion: HPI manages engine functions and DC conversion—fewer separate boxes to install.
Scalable & redundant: Multiple GreenGenerators can feed the DC bus for higher power and uptime.
Flexible specs: 140–400 kW range and ~384–960 VDC options suit diverse vessel sizes and system designs.
Operator friendly & safe: 5″ HMI with key parameters, plus E-stop and dual cooling for reliability.

GreenMotor

The Mega-Guard GreenMotor is a high-efficiency permanent magnet propulsion and generator motor, adaptable for full-electric, serial hybrid, or parallel hybrid vessels. With a power range of approximately 20 kW to 3,050 kW (and torque up to ~82,700 Nm), it’s compatible with hybrid gearboxes or direct shaft drive. Integrated options include built-in planetary gearboxes, temperature sensors, and high-class approvals (DNV-GL, ABS, etc.).

PRAXIS AUTOMATION