Lloyd’s Register has released a joint research report that outlines marine technology trends and examines how they will transform commercial shipping in the next 15 years.
The Global Marine Technology Trends 2030 report, a collaborative project between Lloyd’s Register, QinetiQ, and the University of Southampton, looks at the transformative impact of different technologies on commercial shipping and seeks to understand the future of maritime industries and the ocean. Over 56 critical technologies that have the potential for developing and implementation by 2030 were examined, with 18 of these selected for further analysis including big data analytics, advanced materials, smart shipping and communication technologies. The report focusses on Technomax scenarios for bulk carriers, tankers, container ships, and gas carriers. These Technomax scenarios represent the potential maximum technology uptake that can be gained relevant to these four ship market sectors.
The relevance of this report lies in the notion that the transition time between emerging and mature technologies is continually shortening, making it increasingly important to determine these emerging technologies early on as they will have significant value and impact on the industry. The report identifies in particular two key technology drivers: those that will transform the ship design and space, leading to advancement in ship building, propulsion & powering, and the development of the smart ship; and those technologies that drive safety, commercial and operational performance.
The research established a number of industry innovations that are set to drive the future of commercial shipping. Big data and the processing of large quantities through analytics is viewed as increasingly important. It is not just about the quantity of data but more importantly the quality of it and correct information management in order to ensure proper analysis and decision-making. In addition, autonomous systems are maturing and according to the report, an increase in the use of these systems is highly likely in order to provide vast opportunities for small and medium sized enterprises and large companies in multiple markets. The report also draws upon the use of advanced materials in the maritime industry and the intensification of shipbuilding competition, which is expected to drive advances in shipbuilding technologies.
Furthermore, the report highlights the importance of increasing human-computer interaction (HCI) to help “bridge the gap” between “how the human brain and computer processes work”. It is estimated that by 2030 a number of new HCI technologies will replace or augment those currently used to help automatically recognise human needs and requirements to improve the relationship between people and computer technology. The use of marine biotechnology to harness reservoir potentials of the ocean, such as algae for example, and the utilisation of sustainable energy is also expected to see further uptake by 2030.
Commenting on the report, LR’s Marine Marketing Director, Luis Benito explained:“The marine world in 2030 will be a connected and digital one, bringing closer integration between people, software and hardware in a way that could transform the way we operate. We know technology is changing our world and there is a great deal of overlap between technologies and how they combine will be important.”
To view the full report, please click here.
