Could “Robot Ships” Be the Face of the Future for the Shipping Industry?

 

The idea of Autonomous transportation is successfully being implemented in trains and aircraft. The automobile industry to is on a trial with its adaptation. Yet the implementation of robotics in the shipping industry is different than that of other means of transportations.

Some Facts About the Shipping Industry

With the modern robotics technology hacking it is way into the biggest cargo trading, let us look at some basic facts about the international shipping world.

·         Around 90% of global trade is dependent upon the shipping industry

·         There are more than 20 million active cargo ships at sea globally. And this number is likely to further increase.                                                                                   

·         The Sea trade is expected to rise 20% in the next 2 decade

·         Ships are delicate assets with an average value of $200 million and require high-level maintenance.

How the Modern Robotic Tech May Assist in the Shipping Industry

1.      Robotic Inspectors of Ships

Ship maintenance is essential to match its standards stated by IMO (International maritime organization), yet only 10% of cargo ships in the world are completely inspected. Not only maritime engineers and crew members, but air freight companies is also concerned with the ship’s quality such as its structure, its navigation, and its hygiene. Robotic inspectors are an effective solution. They can handle emergencies such as fire and gas burst. They can assist in cleaning and navigating the ships, reducing the risk of sending humans at the dangerous sea.

2.      Robotics for Firefighting in Ships

One of the most common casualties causing incidents in ships and vessels are the fire outbursts. With advance flameproof robotics, the probability of overcoming such accidents can increase with cautious and less risk of losing any human life.

3.      Mull Cleaners robots

A ship mulls is a vulnerable part as bacteria, rust, and plants often abode it, resulting in a 10% decrease in ship’s speed and a 40% increase in its fuel. Robotic mull cleaners can remove all these elements before a ship’s departure and these ships can become more fuel-efficient.

4.      Robotic Vessels Concept

Though the ideas have not been mainstreamed yet; Rolls Royce has unveiled the world’s first-ever robotic vessel with 100% automation. The Harsh sea weather is often risky for human lives and therefore with fully automated vessels, the cargo trade may become safer.

5.      Robotic Cruise Service

Cruise ships are prime luxury options for elites to savors the colors of life. Even a partial robotic food and entertainment service is likely to enhance the experience. Some prime examples are the cruise casinos game hosts and bartenders.

Conclusion

A freight agent in Pakistan predicted a significant upcoming role of robotics and technology in the international shipping industry. Implying robotics on ships can reduce the security issues, make ships more fuel efficient and offer a better inspection. The developed countries have been investing to make a full autonomous vessel. And though the idea seems farfetched, it’s not impossible.