These days, artificial intelligence, or AI, is pervasive. However, what is AI exactly? Is it limited to ChatGPT and other chatbots? No! AI is a vast field with a wide variety of systems that assist machines in performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. It’s interesting to note that artificial intelligence is not new—it has existed for over 40 years! However, AI was impractical due to the slowness of earlier computers. AI is now a potent tool, even in sectors like shipping and maritime, thanks to faster computers and more data.
Let’s examine the three primary categories of artificial intelligence systems and their applications in the maritime industry:
1. Generative AI (Like ChatGPT)
AI that can produce original content, including text, pictures, and even plans, is known as generative AI. Although ChatGPT generates text responses, shipping and maritime companies can also use generative AI.
An illustration from the maritime sector:
Creating Shipping Reports: Generative AI systems are able to automatically create draft reports on cargo shipments or maintenance records, eliminating the need for human intervention.
Crew Training Simulations: To teach crew members about safety protocols or emergency responses, generative AI can assist in producing training materials or virtual scenarios.
Simple Application: AI-powered daily ship log or maintenance checklist generation that saves ship employees time.
2. Machine Learning Systems Predictive Models
The area of artificial intelligence that focuses on forecasting using historical data is called machine learning, or ML. Because ships gather a lot of data while traveling, this is very helpful to the shipping industry.
An illustration from the maritime sector:
Predictive Maintenance: Sensors are used by ships to keep an eye on their machinery and engines. This data is analyzed by machine learning models, which help prevent breakdowns at sea by forecasting when a part might fail.
Route Optimization: To save time and fuel, machine learning models can forecast weather, fuel consumption, and sea conditions to recommend the best course.
Cargo Demand Forecasting: Using historical shipping patterns, AI can forecast which routes or cargo kinds will yield the highest profits.
Simple Application: Assisting shipping companies in determining the most fuel-efficient shipping routes or when to plan engine maintenance.
3. Rule-Based Systems (AI Reasoning)
Rule-based AI was used in many systems prior to the rise of machine learning. These systems adhere to predetermined, human-written rules. They are still helpful for many maritime tasks despite being simpler.
An illustration from the maritime sector:
Procedures for Port Entry: By adhering to set customs and immigration regulations, rule-based systems assist ships in automatically processing entry forms.
Safety Checklists: Rule-based systems, such as “Raise an alert if life jackets are missing,” guarantee that safety inspections proceed in the proper order.
Easy Use: Automated systems that determine whether a ship satisfies safety requirements before permitting it to depart port.
Why It Took AI Some Time to Get to Ships
Although artificial intelligence (AI) has been around for more than 40 years, the maritime industry was unable to use it earlier because ships lacked reliable internet connections and powerful onboard computers. These days, AI tools can help ships at sea in the same way that they help factories or offices on land thanks to satellite communication, cloud computing, and improved hardware.
AI is more than just sophisticated chatbots. AI functions in the maritime sector in a variety of ways:
Generative AI assists with training and creates reports.
Machine learning makes recommendations for effective routes and forecasts maintenance requirements.
Safety checks and regulatory compliance are guaranteed by rule-based systems.
AI can be compared to providing ships with a smart assistant that never gets bored and constantly seeks to make travel safer, quicker, and less expensive. Smarter ships, not just larger ones, are the way of the future for shipping! If you’ve any questions or would like connect over a quick chat or discussion on AI & it’s impacts in the maritime industry, you can reach out to me at the below email address.
Marex Media
The Author
Vishrut Srivastava
Managing Director
Yodaplus Technologies Pvt Ltd
vishrut@yodaplus.com