“Together, we are not just adopting technology; we are redefining what is possible in maritime operations”. In this vein, Swapnodeep Mondal, Group Managing Director of Operations and Shared Services, shares some of the latest innovations in use/being considered across our managed fleet to foster innovative thinking and continuous improvement
AI agents
In the dynamic world of maritime operations, AI agents are emerging as indispensable allies, revolutionising how tasks are managed and executed. These intelligent digital assistants, powered by technologies such as natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning, function tirelessly around the clock. They are akin to diligent colleagues who tirelessly sift through data, interpret guidelines, and generate valuable insights. At Anglo-Eastern, we are actively exploring the myriad applications of AI agents that promise to significantly bolster the capabilities of our entire team.
For our shore staff, the advantages of integrating AI agents extend far beyond mere efficiency; they are pivotal in minimising human error, a critical factor in our industry where a single overlooked detail can shift the balance from compliance to risk. Envision an AI agent that can instantly respond to queries from our Safety Management System (SMS) with precise references to technical manuals, saving countless hours previously spent on manual searches. Consider another agent capable of conducting a detailed Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for findings or non-conformities, aligning its assessments with industry guidelines and regulatory frameworks like ISM and IMO codes, thereby reducing the time needed to draft reports from days to mere minutes. Additionally, imagine an agent that can extract technical specifications from voluminous 500-page manuals in seconds, streamlining the troubleshooting process. These are not futuristic fantasies; these tools are currently in pilot phases within our organisation, with feasible plans to expand their use across our fleet, leveraging our internal database.
The overarching objective of deploying AI agents is to liberate our staff from the burden of repetitive tasks, thereby empowering them to dedicate their efforts to strategic decision-making, creative problem-solving, and initiatives that drive meaningful progress. With pilots underway and plans to scale fleet-wide using our proprietary databases, Anglo-Eastern is pioneering a future where AI agents handle mundane tasks, empowering our people to drive innovation and operational excellence. The journey has just begun, but the potential—for automation, insight generation, and risk mitigation—is vast, and will be uniquely tailored to our industry’s evolving needs.
Hyundai Intelligent Navigation Assistant System (HiNAS)
HiNAS, developed by Avikus, is an advanced navigation assistance solution that helps us see and understand what’s happening around our vessels. It includes two main parts: HiNAS SVM (Surround View Monitor) and HiNAS Navigation.
HiNAS SVM:
- Surround View: Uses special cameras around the vessel to give a complete view of the surroundings. This helps the crew see everything around the ship, making navigation safer.
- Nearby Threat Warning: Uses sensors to detect objects nearby and alerts the crew if there’s a risk of collision. The system shows different colours to indicate the level of danger.
- Berthing Assistant Indicator: Provides important navigation information to help with docking the vessel. This makes berthing operations smoother and safer.
- Preference Settings: Allows customisation of various functions and alarms to fit specific needs, ensuring the system works best for different situations.
HiNAS Navigation:
- Digital Indicators: Displays clear visuals and adjustable settings to ensure important navigation information is easy to read in different lighting conditions, helping the crew monitor the vessel’s status effectively.
- Collision Alarm: Combines data from cameras, AIS, and radar to detect targets and prevent collisions. This feature helps the crew avoid accidents by providing timely alerts.
- Video Recording: Continuously records camera feed, storing footage for up to 30 days. This ensures all navigation activities are documented for future reference and analysis.
- Customisation: Offers settings for collision warning levels based on distance and time to closest approach, tailored to open sea and congested areas. This helps the crew manage lookout duties more efficiently.
Benefits for our crew and shore staff:
- Improved Situational Awareness: With real-time data and comprehensive views, the crew can make more informed decisions, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall safety.
- Efficiency in Operations: Automated features like collision alarms and video recording streamline processes, saving time and reducing manual effort.
- Customisation and Flexibility: The ability to tailor settings to specific environments ensures that the system meets the unique needs of each vessel and operation.
- Enhanced Safety Management: By integrating advanced sensor data and providing clear, actionable insights, HiNAS helps in maintaining compliance with industry standards and minimising human error.
Smart Draft Survey (SDS)
The SDS is a portable level monitoring device that measures the “draft” of a vessel, i.e. the vertical distance between the waterline and the lowest part of the ship’s hull. It is unique in its ability to take level measurements at any point and location required, making it an invaluable tool for accurate and efficient draft surveys.
Key features of SDS:
- Radar Sensor: The SDS uses advanced radar technology to measure the draft of the vessel accurately, even in challenging conditions like swell and wind.
- Adjustable Boom: The device features a telescopic boom that can extend up to 500mm from the edge of the ship, ensuring uninterrupted readings.
- Mobile App Integration: The SDS seamlessly connects with a mobile app, allowing rapid completion of the entire vessel’s draft survey within minutes. The app-based system ensures accurate, safer measurements for seafarers.
- Portability: Made from lightweight composite material, the SDS is easy to carry and can be installed by a single person. Its screw-less design and strong clamping mechanism make installation quick and hassle-free.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The device connects over Bluetooth to send real-time sensor data, which is used for on-device calculations and report generation.
- Long Battery Life: Powered by an in-built Li-ion battery, the SDS can last up to 72 hours on a single charge.
Benefits for our crew and shore Staff
The SDS is designed to significantly enhance the capabilities of both our onboard crew and shore staff by providing:
- Improved Accuracy: The SDS offers precise draft measurements, reducing the subjectivity and inconsistency of traditional methods. This ensures safer and more reliable operations.
- Efficiency in Operations: The automated system streamlines the draft survey process, saving time and reducing manual effort. Reports are generated quickly and can be sent to servers with approval signs from local authorities.
- Ease of Use: The lightweight and portable design, along with the easy installation process, makes the SDS user-friendly for both onboard crew and shore staff.
- Enhanced Safety Management: By providing accurate and real-time data, the SDS helps in maintaining compliance with industry standards and minimising human error.
If you are interested in knowing more about our services and offerings, including but not limited to ship management, crew management, newbuildings services, and innovative projects onboard our managed fleet, feel free to contact us.
