Marine technology

Marine technology is defined by WEGEMT (a European association of 40 universities in 17 countries) as "technologies for the safe use, exploitation, protection of, and intervention in, the marine environment." In this regard, according to WEGEMT, the technologies involved in marine technology are the following:^[1] naval architecture, marine engineering, ship design, ship building and ship operations; oil and gas exploration, exploitation, and production; hydrodynamics, navigation, sea surface and sub-surface support, underwater technology and engineering; marine resources (including both renewable and non-renewable marine resources); transport logistics and economics; inland, coastal, short sea and deep sea shipping; protection of the marine environment; leisure and safety.^[1]

According to the Cape Fear Community College of Wilmington, North Carolina, the curriculum for a marine technology program provides practical skills and academic background that are essential in succeeding in the area of marine scientific support. Through a marine technology program, students aspiring to become marine technologists will become proficient in the knowledge and skills required of scientific support technicians.

The educational preparation includes classroom instructions and practical training aboard ships, such as how to use and maintain electronic navigation devices, physical and chemical measuring instruments, sampling devices, and data acquisition and reduction systems aboard ocean-going and smaller vessels, among other advanced equipment.^[2]

As far as marine technician programs are concerned, students learn hands-on to trouble shoot, service and repair four- and two-stroke outboards, stern drive, rigging, fuel & lube systems, electrical including diesel engines.^[3]

Marine technology is related to the marine science and technology industry, also known as maritime commerce. The Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development (EOHED) of the government of Massachusetts in the United States defined marine science and technology industry as any business that deals primarily with or relates to the sea. A marine science industry includes businesses and technologies, research facilities, and higher education learning institutions. Companies and businesses involved in marine science and industry produce products such as ropes used for commercial fishing, undersea robotics, and stabilized sensor systems. The marine science industry has five sub-sectors, namely marine instrumentation and equipment, marine services, marine research and education, marine materials and supply, and shipbuilding and design.^[4]

The maritime sector, a cornerstone of global commerce and economic infrastructure, is in the midst of a transformative phase propelled by emerging technologies. These innovations aim to elevate operational efficiency, safety, environmental stewardship, and compliance with regulations. The shift toward more interconnected, automated, and data-centric maritime operations signifies a significant evolution in industry practices.^[5]

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning are leading the wave of innovation in the maritime sector, offering advanced solutions for predictive maintenance, voyage optimization, and autonomous decision-making processes. Utilizing extensive datasets, AI algorithms are capable of anticipating machinery malfunctions, optimizing navigation routes for fuel and emission reduction, and automating critical navigational decisions, thereby markedly improving safety and operational efficiencies.

The Internet of Things (IoT) technology fosters enhanced connectivity within shipboard systems through an extensive network of sensors, facilitating real-time monitoring and analytical data processing. This innovation optimizes maintenance schedules, augments cargo management, and promotes operational transparency. Additionally, IoT's application in smart ports revolutionizes cargo handling and port operations through automation and efficient data exchange.

Blockchain technology introduces a robust framework for secure, transparent, and efficient transactions within the maritime supply chain. By establishing an immutable transaction ledger, blockchain ensures the integrity of cargo documentation and enables the execution of smart contracts, thereby streamlining maritime logistics operations with unprecedented reliability and efficiency.

Technological advancements in autonomous navigation, integrating sensors, data analytics, and AI, are paving the way for the advent of unmanned vessels. These autonomous ships aim to diminish human error, significantly contributing to maritime incidents, and enhance operational efficiency. The exploration of autonomous vessels also fosters innovative ship design, emphasizing cargo space and energy efficiency without the need for crew facilities.

Augmented reality (AR) technology significantly bolsters navigational safety and crew training in the maritime domain. By superimposing digital data onto the real-world environment, AR provides immediate navigational assistance, identifies potential hazards, and offers immersive training scenarios, thereby enhancing crew preparedness and operational safety.

The utilization of big data analytics in maritime operations enables the processing and examination of extensive datasets for informed decision-making. Insights from fleet management, route optimization, and compliance data contribute to the achievement of greater operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Big data is also instrumental in predictive maintenance and logistics planning.

Marine technology is important for commerce and sustainable development. Therefore, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 calls for an increase in transfer of marine technology and research capacity to least developed countries (LDCs).^[6]

• Marine conservation § Technology and halfway technology

• Maritime Technologies Complex Jobs, Nick Wilson, underwaterpro.co, 2024-04-26

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Marine technology.

• Marine Technology Reporter, 8 pp.
• WEGEMT, the organization

• WEGEMT Associates, list of member universities and countries