In an effort to build a stronger shipping sector in Japan, best shipbuilders and shipping associations have joined hands to establish an advanced research centre at Osaka University. The initiative has been crafted to advance innovation and internationalize Japan's shipping sector.
Establishment of the Open Collaboration Laboratory for Enabling Advanced Marine Systems (OCEANS)
A team consisting of Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., Japan Marine United Corporation (JMU), Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd. (NSY), ClassNK, and MTI Co., Ltd. (MTI), the research institute of Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK), has come together to establish the Open Collaboration Laboratory for Enabling Advanced Marine Systems (OCEANS). OCEANS will open in April 2025 and be housed within the Osaka University Graduate School of Engineering, specifically the Techno Alliance Building.
Overcoming Industry Challenges
The Japanese shipping industry is currently facing various challenges like geopolitical risks, economic security concerns, global warming, rapid technological shifts like artificial intelligence (AI), and demographic shifts like the graying of populations in advanced countries. In order to counter these challenges, revolutionary changes in design and production processes are urgently needed. The goal is to develop high-performance next-generation ships with innovative functions, enhanced environmental performance, and enhanced safety features rapidly.
Objectives of OCEANS
The primary objective of OCEANS is to become a world-class research and educational hub that leads the global maritime community. By collaboration among academia, industry, and research, OCEANS aims to:
- Develop New Ship Design and Manufacturing Technologies: Develop advanced design methods and manufacturing processes to produce next-generation ships to keep pace with evolving global standards.
- Boost Environmental Performance: Invest in the creation of green technologies to reduce the carbon footprint of shipping activities.
- Improve Safety Standards: Fit ships with state-of-the-art safety features to protect ships, mariners, and the marine environment.
Developments in Digital Twin Technology
Along with the release of OCEANS, Japan's maritime industry leaders have concluded the initial stages of an industry collaboration to develop a secure data-sharing system between shipowners and shipbuilders. The project focuses on developing digital twin technology throughout a ship's lifecycle. The project includes various stakeholders including MTI, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), Marubeni Corporation, Imabari Shipbuilding, JMU, Usuki Shipyard, NAPA, and ClassNK.
The initial outcomes of the project have demonstrated the success of increased sharing of data among stakeholders by overcoming barriers associated with sharing operation and design data sensitive in nature. Over 30 target applications have been investigated where data exchange and 3D models can introduce vessel-specific digital twins, improving operational efficiency as well as security throughout the entire ship lifecycle.
Future Outlook
The collaboration between industry and academia represented by OCEANS is a strategic effort towards addressing the sophisticated challenges of the maritime industry. Through its synergy of top-level research and practical implementation, the project is expected to be a leader in pioneering innovative ship design, environmental sustainability, and safety standards. When launched in April 2025, OCEANS is poised to be a leader in shaping the future of international maritime technology.
Conclusion
Osaka University's opening of OCEANS and new breakthroughs in digital twin technology symbolize Japan's commitment to be at the forefront of maritime industry innovation. Beyond seeking to cultivate the shipping sector of the country, such endeavors propel global maritime technology and environmental conservation innovation.
External Links for Further Reading
- Imabari Shipbuilding News Release
- Maritime Informed: Japan Marine United Corporation News
- Nautical Voice: Japanese Maritime Leaders Advance Digital Twin Technology
- Offshore Energy: Japanese Majors to accelerate Digital Twins Adoption in Shipping Sector
- PortNews: Japanese Businesses Finalize Initial Steps of Data Exchange Project
They are examples of Japan's active push towards adopting technological innovations and joint research efforts to play the leading role in the emerging global maritime economy.