Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is making waves with the announcement of three new innovation projects, two of which are spearheaded by Halifax-based Marine Thinking. With a collective value exceeding $9 million, these ventures include a noteworthy $3.8-million initiative focused on developing an AI-powered vessel automation toolkit. This collaborative effort aims to revolutionize fishing operations, bolster competitiveness in ocean artificial intelligence, and enhance existing maritime infrastructure.
Marine Thinking is teaming up with ACEL Power from Vancouver and Dalhousie University to create this cutting-edge toolkit. The goal? To transform traditional vessels into smart ships equipped with autopilot capabilities and improved operational efficiency. The implications are significant: enhanced catch-monitoring through autonomous navigation and optimized fishing route planning, along with the autonomous detection of ghost gear in deep waters. These advancements promise to not only streamline fishing operations but also elevate safety standards and contribute to the sustainability of Canada’s fisheries.
Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, underscores the transformative potential of this initiative. “With advancing solutions for artificial intelligence and automation in vessel operations, Canada has an opportunity to lead the way in the future of marine transport,” she stated. The Ocean Supercluster’s investment of $1,548,990, alongside contributions from project partners, reflects a robust commitment to fostering innovation in the maritime sector.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Marine Thinking has also secured a $940,000 project for remote robotic underwater inspections, in collaboration with Innvotek and Innovate UK. This initiative aims to enhance the speed and accuracy of ship hull inspections while minimizing risks associated with diving crews. The development of a launch and recovery system for Innvotek’s amphibian “underwater inspection in lieu of drydocking” (UWILD) solution is a game-changer. This technology-driven approach promises a safe, cost-effective method for conducting underwater inspections, which are vital for the maintenance of thousands of vessels.
The amphibian UWILD’s ability to operate above and below the waterline and access tight spaces where divers struggle is a significant leap forward in maritime technology. By enabling hull cleaning and inspections over large areas without fatigue, this robotic solution offers a precision that can lead to more accurate predictive maintenance analysis.
The ripple effects of these projects could reshape the entire maritime landscape. As Canada positions itself as a global leader in ocean technology, the integration of AI and robotics into vessel operations could set new standards for efficiency and safety. The potential for improved data visualization and remote control onboard vessels not only enhances operational capabilities but also fosters a culture of innovation that could inspire further advancements in the sector.
In a world where the maritime industry faces increasing pressures from environmental concerns and regulatory demands, these innovations could be the lifeline that ensures the health and prosperity of Canada’s oceans and coastal communities. As the industry navigates these transformative waters, the collaboration between academia, industry, and technology partners is a testament to the power of collective effort in driving progress. The future of maritime operations looks promising, and Canada is poised to lead the charge.