In a significant stride towards greening the maritime sector, researchers have developed an autonomous shore-to-ship charging system that could revolutionize how electric vessels recharge. The system, detailed in a recent study published in the International Journal of Advanced Robotic Systems, is designed to address the unique challenges of maritime environments, including tight docking schedules and dynamic conditions.
The lead author, Shangwei Yang, from the Hubei Key Laboratory of Mechanical Transmission and Manufacturing Engineering at Wuhan University of Science and Technology, explains the system’s innovative approach. “Our vision-controlled automatic robotic charging system uses a single camera and advanced algorithms to identify and connect with charging targets on the ship with remarkable precision,” Yang says. The system’s accuracy is impressive, with a displacement error within 0.8 millimeters and an angular positioning error within 0.7 degrees, making it highly reliable for practical engineering applications.
The charging process begins with a camera capturing visual data, which is then processed using the YOLO11 object detection model to roughly identify circular targets on an auxiliary alignment platform. Detailed edge features are extracted from the rough target image using Canny-Zernike and least-squares algorithms to obtain precise target coordinates. These coordinates are then located within the camera coordinate system based on the target pose calculated by the Infinitesimal Plane-Based Pose Estimation algorithm. Once the precise target coordinates are determined, they are transmitted to the robotic arm of the charging station, which connects the plug and socket to commence the charging process.
The commercial implications of this technology are substantial. As the number of electric ships continues to grow, the demand for efficient and autonomous charging solutions will increase. This system could significantly reduce the time ships spend docked, allowing them to adhere to tight schedules while ensuring they are fully charged. Moreover, the system’s reliability and precision could enhance safety and reduce maintenance costs, making it an attractive option for maritime operators.
The opportunities for the maritime sector are vast. Ports could integrate this technology to offer autonomous charging services, creating a new revenue stream. Shipbuilders could equip new vessels with compatible charging systems, making them more appealing to eco-conscious operators. Additionally, the technology could pave the way for further innovations in autonomous maritime operations, contributing to the sector’s sustainability goals.
Yang’s research highlights the potential of advanced robotics and artificial intelligence in transforming the maritime industry. As the sector continues to evolve, such innovations will be crucial in meeting the demands of a greener, more efficient future. The study’s findings, published in the International Journal of Advanced Robotic Systems, mark a significant step forward in this direction.