In this paper, model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and discrete event simulation (DES) are combined to assess the performance of an offshore production system at an early stage. Various systems engineering tools are applied to an industrial case concerning the retrieval of deep-sea minerals, and a simulation engine is developed to calculate the annual production output. A mean production of 1 Million tonnes of ore per year is estimated for an operation in the Norwegian Sea using Monte Carlo simulation. Depending on the limiting design wave height of the marine operations, the estimated production output ranges from 280,000 tonnes to 1.8 Million tonnes per year. The constrained parameter of the production system is particularly the wave height operational limit of the ship-to-ship transfer operation. We present the learning outcome from applying MBSE and DES to this case and discuss important aspects for improved performance.@en

Deep sea mining refers to the mining of valuable mineral resources from the deep ocean floor. Given the complex and fragile nature of deep-sea ecosystems, adopting an interdisciplinary and holistic approach is crucial to ensure the sustainable and responsible development of deep-sea mining (DSM) operations. This includes work related to the assessment of potential environmental impacts where physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the target area are studied along with potential short-term and long-term effects on the surrounding ecosystems. These effects will be mining system dependent. Stakeholder engagement is essential. There are however knowledge gaps related to the deep-sea ecosystems and their interconnectedness, biodiversity, ecosystem dynamics and both the potential impacts from a single operation and cumulative impacts of the mining activities, as well as the mining systems themselves and the characteristics of the deposits. Collaboration between marine biologists, oceanographers, geologists, engineers and other relevant disciplines is essential to gain comprehensive insights. Closing these gaps would enable the development and implementation of a robust regulatory framework at both national and international levels to govern potential deep-sea mining operations. Monitoring and enforcement mechanisms must also be put in place to ensure compliance with the not-yet-developed set of standards. Multiscale adaptive management approaches where different temporal- and spatial scales are taken into consideration and where scientific knowledge, stakeholder engagement, robust regulations, and responsible practices are integrated, are the prerequisite for future responsible extraction of mineral resources from the ocean floor. This chapter gives an overview of topics relevant and needed for a proper multiscale marine mineral management. Its focus on the water column is restricted to vertical transportation and the impact of plume resettlement on biogeochemical processes.@en