The Evolution of Maritime Automation
Korkeala, Aapo Ilmari (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024090624827
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024090624827
Tiivistelmä
This thesis explored the transformative impact of automation technology on various sectors, traced its historical roots, and examined contemporary applications, with a specific focus on the maritime industry. Beginning with early innovations like Da Vinci’s self-propelled cart and evolving through significant technological milestones such as the Whitehead Torpedo and DARPA Challenges, the progression of automation from mechanical contrivances to complex, software-driven systems were highlighted. Special attention was given to the intersection of automation with maritime operations, where the advent of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) presented novel challenges and opportunities. Regulatory frameworks, spearheaded by entities like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Union, were critically analyzed to reveal their adaptability to emerging technologies.
Through a review of both historical precedents and current advancements, the crucial role of cybersecurity, the implications of automation on labor and safety, and the potential environmental benefits offered by autonomous ships were underscored. The integration of historical context with current technological and regulatory developments provided a comprehensive overview of the pervasive impact of automation, positioning it as a key driver of efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the maritime domain and beyond. This study not only reflected on the technical and regulatory challenges but also considered the broader societal implications and prospects of automation in reshaping global industries.
The thesis includes a summary on four distinct areas which are 1) Pre-existing knowledge on the subject, 2) Current situation in legislation, 3) Perspectives of different manufacturers, 4) An overview of the future. The objective of the thesis is to have a universal and practical summary which can be used as an aid in the Maritime Logistics ROME project.
Through a review of both historical precedents and current advancements, the crucial role of cybersecurity, the implications of automation on labor and safety, and the potential environmental benefits offered by autonomous ships were underscored. The integration of historical context with current technological and regulatory developments provided a comprehensive overview of the pervasive impact of automation, positioning it as a key driver of efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the maritime domain and beyond. This study not only reflected on the technical and regulatory challenges but also considered the broader societal implications and prospects of automation in reshaping global industries.
The thesis includes a summary on four distinct areas which are 1) Pre-existing knowledge on the subject, 2) Current situation in legislation, 3) Perspectives of different manufacturers, 4) An overview of the future. The objective of the thesis is to have a universal and practical summary which can be used as an aid in the Maritime Logistics ROME project.