Making shipping more efficient through disruptive technologies

Three important players in their industry are partnering up to explore disruptive technologies such as augmented reality and computer vision in order to improve efficiency in the shipping industry.

Safetytech Accelerator has announced recently a collaboration with research and innovation centre CYENS and marine services provider Oceanic to explore augmented reality and computer vision in assisting the crew in the safe handling and storage of vessel provisions.

The collaboration explores the use of augmented reality and computer vision to assess the onboard management of stock. This will lead to better management and utilisation of stock, reduction of food waste, as well as improved hygiene and safety practices.

“At Oceanic, we are committed to continuously developing innovative solutions and industry-leading technology. Through digitalisation, we strive to improve our operational efficiencies and provide a unique sustainable service proposition to our clients, while supporting our catering crew and delivering unique experiences to our travelling guests. We are very happy to collaborate with CYENS and Safetytech Accelerator. We are looking forward to the outcomes of this exciting project,” managing director Kyriakos Hadjikyriakou said.

Oceanic is one of the leading marine catering, hospitality and wellbeing services specialists currently serving over 2,300 vessels, supporting clients across all sectors of the industry, from merchant shipping to offshore, leisure, and niche expedition cruises.

“We are very happy to be able to contribute to the digitalisation and adoption of new technologies in the shipping industry. The automation and use of advanced digital technologies are becoming increasingly relevant for maritime transport. As a Centre of Excellence we fully support the effort to streamline processes, transform supply chains and create new business opportunities in this strategically important economic sector,” chief innovation officer of CYENS Olga Shvarova said.

CYENS is the research and innovation centre of excellence in Cyprus focusing on interactive media, smart systems and emerging technologies aiming to empower knowledge and technology transfer in Cyprus and the region.

“This project is a great example of the work we like to be involved in at Safetytech Accelerator: Working with world-leading experts in maritime and using technology towards making a real difference in seafarers’ lives. We look forward to sharing the outcomes of this collaboration soon,” commercial director at Safetytech Accelerator Gabriele Dadò said.

The collaboration builds on similar Safetytech Accelerator projects. Safetytech mission is to make the world safer and more sustainable through the wider adoption of technology. Some of these projects are Waypoint 4: Nearshore, a pilot to test whether computer vision can help improve safety when working at height and how technology can help fight fires on container ships.

Safetytech Accelerator is a non-profit established by Lloyd’s Register and the Lloyd’s Register Foundation.