HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) has partnered with US software firm Altair to enhance eco-friendly marine engines and explore AI applications in the maritime sector. This collaboration aims to improve marine engine technology, focusing on design efficiency and development cycles, while leveraging AI for performance and predictive maintenance.
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is revolutionizing maritime management through AI and big data. The Maritime Data and Sustainable Development Centre has created tools for vessel monitoring and emergency response, achieving 98.6% accuracy in predicting typhoon shelter needs. Collaborations with Tsinghua University enhance data processing and improve navigation safety.
HD Hyundai is partnering with AI and robotics start-ups to develop a humanoid robot for complex welding tasks, aiming to transform smart shipyards. The initiative emphasizes improved human-machine collaboration to enhance productivity and safety. Prototypes are expected by 2026, with field testing and commercialization planned for 2027.
South Korea has launched a public-private training center to educate 1,000 professionals annually in areas like AI, environmentally friendly ships, and autonomous vessels. With a total investment of $4.77 million, the center aims to address the shortage of skilled workers in the maritime industry. This collaborative effort highlights the commitment to industry advancement.
Lloyd’s Register (LR) and Microsoft are joining forces to revolutionize the use of nuclear power in the maritime industry through generative artificial intelligence. By leveraging Azure OpenAI Service, LR aims to streamline regulatory processes and accelerate the deployment of nuclear technology at sea. This collaboration signifies an advancement in the integration of nuclear energy in maritime applications.
Amphitrite, a startup named after the Greek goddess of the sea, is using AI and satellite data to revolutionize maritime-shipping and oceanic litter-collection operations. Co-founder Alexandre Stegner believes their work is crucial for the energy transition and addressing environmental issues. Their AI models, powered by NVIDIA technology, optimize vessel positioning for efficiency and sustainability.
Efforts to advance ship automation for fully independent operation are progressing, with HD Hyundai achieving a milestone by demonstrating autonomous operation and remote control integration on an 8,000 TEU containership. Certification from both the Korean Registry of Shipping and the Liberia State Flag Bureau marks progress towards commercializing third-stage automation.
The Vendée Globe, a grueling solo round-the-world race, has a history of high dropout rates due to technical issues and collisions. In the upcoming edition, most boats will be equipped with SEA.AI technology to enhance collision detection and navigation. This cutting-edge system aims to improve safety and help sailors navigate the challenging race course.
Stena Line introduces AI system, Voyage Optimisation System, to enhance vessel operations at sea. By analyzing real-time factors like wind and waves, the AI reduces fuel consumption and ensures energy efficiency. The collaboration between developers and crew improves AI solutions, integrating technology as an assistant to human decision-making. Stena Line’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond maritime transportation, setting a standard for innovation in the industry.
In a March 2023 blog, Bill Gates emphasized the transformative power of AI, predicting job losses across various industries. However, AI will enhance marine surveying by streamlining data acquisition and processing, meeting the growing demand for offshore wind energy. AI will act as a virtual co-pilot for marine surveyors, improving efficiency without replacing human skills.
