Revolutionary Wall-Climbing Robot for Steel Structures in Maritime Operations

A revolutionary wall-climbing robot designed for steel structures has been developed by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. (SHI), and MOL Ship Management Co., Ltd. (MOLSHIP). This robot, tailored for ship inspection and maintenance tasks, has passed a demonstration test and received the prestigious Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) “Innovation Endorsement Certification” for its innovative design and ability to transform maritime operations. It boasts exceptional agility, imaging capabilities, and accuracy in measuring steel plate thickness remotely, reducing risks and costs associated with traditional methods.

The robot’s successful demonstration test, overseen by ClassNK, showcased its effectiveness in various operational scenarios like navigating corners, capturing detailed wall inspection images, and accurately measuring plate thickness. It has been recognized for its technological brilliance and inventive performance in ship inspection, earning the Innovation Endorsement accreditation in the “Product & Solution” category. This recognition highlights its crucial role in advancing maritime technologies and enhancing transportation safety, contributing to the collective efforts of MOL, MOLSHIP, and SHI in ship operation and robotic research.

The certification marks a new era of technological advancements aimed at supporting sustainable and safe maritime operations, aligning with ClassNK’s dedication to fostering innovation in the maritime industry. These industry leaders are committed to enhancing lives and workplaces through innovative projects like the wall-climbing robot, with a vision of creating a better future for maritime transportation. The collaborative efforts of MOL, MOLSHIP, and SHI are focused on refining the robot’s performance and functionality using data insights to drive digital transformation objectives and improve overall industry standards.

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