Autonomous vessels to change the face of cargo handling
Maritime activity over the next decade will be dominated by unmanned surface and underwater vessels, says a report on the future of autonomous maritime systems.
Written and researched by Lloyd’s Register, QinetiQ and the University of Southampton, the report is a follow-up to Global Marine Technology Trends 2030, looking at how technology trends will impact upon the regulatory and social aspects of maritime operations.
“Networks of autonomous surface and underwater vessels are set to radically change the nature of maritime operations. Developments widely reported in the media, such as those in autonomous shipping, are happening with greater pace than expected as little as two years ago,” said Tim Kent, technical director, marine and offshore, Lloyd’s Register.
“These developments enabled by technology provide new opportunities and potential for disruptive business models. However, the principal challenges will be the integration of these autonomous systems into current maritime operations, legal and regulatory requirements and not least the impact upon seafarers.”
Bill Biggs, senior campaign leader for Autonomy, QinetiQ, added: “Technological advances in consumer and adjacent markets are a real opportunity for the maritime sector. Applied artificial intelligence, low cost low size sensors, increased connectivity, improved cyber security and better energy management are all likely to drive rapid and disruptive change.”
To download a copy of Global Marine Technology Trends 2030 Autonomous Systems visit www.lr.org/GMTT2030
Related Articles
EQUIPMENT