Using artificial intelligence in ship management
The use of artificial intelligence in ship management is one of the most important innovative areas in modern maritime science and technology. This technology is fundamentally transforming ship navigation systems, semi-autonomous and fully autonomous control, and maintenance processes. The primary task of artificial intelligence systems is to analyze large volumes of information in real time and ensure the safe and efficient operation of a vessel. To achieve this, data obtained from radars, lidars, optical cameras, and sensors on board a vessel is processed by artificial intelligence algorithms. This enables the rapid detection of small details that the human eye cannot see or miss, such as small objects or ice floes in the distance. Artificial intelligence is also highly effective in determining the optimal route for a vessel. It calculates not only the shortest route but also the most optimal trajectory that minimizes fuel consumption, taking into account the direction of sea currents, wave height, and wind speed. This significantly contributes to the reduction of harmful emissions globally. Another important application of artificial intelligence in ship management is predictive maintenance. Sensors installed on the vessel's main engine, cargo hold, double bottom integrity system, and pumping system continuously transmit information. Based on this information, artificial intelligence provides advance warning of the potential failure of any mechanical component. This helps prevent unexpected accidents and reduce vessel downtime. Predictive maintenance in ship management is one of the most effective applications of artificial intelligence. While traditional maintenance is performed according to a schedule (e.g., every 1,000 hours) or after a breakdown, with the help of artificial intelligence, this operation is performed based on the actual condition of the equipment.
How this system works:
- Sensor monitoring: Thousands of sensors are installed on the vessel's main engine, generators, and even specialized equipment in the cargo holds. These sensors record even the slightest changes in vibration, temperature, and pressure.
- Anomaly Detection: Artificial intelligence algorithms "learn" the vessel's normal operating parameters. If an anomaly occurs in any part, the system immediately detects it. For example, if the sound of the pumps in the double-bottom sections changes, the system warns of the onset of a malfunction.
- Failure Time Prediction: The system not only reports a malfunction but also estimates how many hours or days a part can continue to operate without problems. This allows ship managers to order the necessary spare parts before the vessel arrives in port.
Key Benefits:
- Cost Savings: Unexpected breakdowns are prevented, minimizing vessel downtime in port.
- Safety: Reduces the risk of engine or navigation system failure at sea.
- Equipment Lifetime: Increases equipment lifespan because minor faults are addressed before they become serious.
This technology is even more effective when combined with digital twins. A virtual replica of the vessel analyzes all possible scenarios, enabling management decisions to be made with the utmost precision. In maritime safety, one of the most important pillars of modern ship management is collision avoidance systems (COLREGs), which make autonomous decisions in strict compliance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. Equipped with artificial intelligence, these systems analyze radar, AIS (Automatic Identification System), and electro-optical camera data in real time to calculate speed, course, and closest point of approach (CPA) with other vessels in the immediate vicinity. This technology not only alerts the vessel's captain but also automatically determines the most appropriate collision avoidance course if a risk arises, taking into account the vessel's maneuverability and sea conditions. This minimizes errors that can arise due to human factors, such as fatigue, distraction, or subjective judgment. Because the system's decisions fully comply with international legal standards, such as "give way" and "take position," navigation safety is maintained at the highest level, even in heavy traffic and foggy weather. This innovative approach protects not only the vessel itself, but also the valuable cargo in its holds, as well as the sensitive marine environment from major disasters.In the future, with the further development of these systems, it is planned to achieve a "zero accident" strategy in maritime transport and create a fully integrated and safe ecosystem through the digital exchange of information between vessels. Approaching and anchoring operations are the most complex and critical phases of shipping, as vessels navigate narrow waters, at low speeds, and in the presence of other vessels. Artificial intelligence at this stage maximizes navigational safety through "smart mooring" and "automatic anchoring" systems. As the vessel approaches the berth, artificial intelligence calculates the distance between the vessel and the shore with millimeter accuracy using laser rangefinders (LiDAR) and ultrasonic sensors. It analyzes not only the distance but also wind gusts, the effect of currents on the vessel's hull, and inertia, and automatically corrects for the vessel's lateral drift. This prevents collisions with the berth and damage to port facilities. When anchoring, artificial intelligence accurately determines where and at what distance the anchor should be dropped, taking into account the seabed topography and the vessel's weight. In anchoring mode, the Anchor Watch system uses artificial intelligence to continuously monitor the vessel's direction and position. If the anchor begins to drift or the vessel leaves the designated safe zone, the system issues an emergency alert and, if necessary, automatically starts the engines to maintain the vessel's stability. The implementation of these systems facilitates the crew's work, especially at night or in foggy weather with limited visibility, and optimizes the time and cost efficiency of port operations for shipowners. In the future, fully autonomous vessels controlled by artificial intelligence will become the standard in maritime transport and will require new digital approaches for specialists in this field.
A.N.Atagurbanowa
Maritime secondary vocational school of the city of Turkmenbashi, teacher
