AMC Search has partnered with a UK automation company to deliver AI-based training for autonomous shipping.
The Australian Maritime College’s AMC Search and Southampton-based Robosys Automation plan to combine their strengths to support mariners with new technology, training and procedures for mixed human and AI operations.
AMC Search said the partnership was prompted by increased publicity of maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) trials in a mix of crewed and uncrewed environments.
Nick Bonser, simulation and autonomous maritime instructor at AMC Search, said Robosys Automation has deep expertise in this area.
“They are dynamic and agile, with the ability to support our cutting-edge simulator operations and MASS operator training syllabus, along with delivering Collision Avoidance Decision Aid (CADA) capability for our students,” Mr Bonser said.
AMC Search and Robosys Automation are launching their partnership with a training session at the Ocean Business 23 event in Southampton this month.
The session features a case study of AMC Search using Robosys’ Voyager AI software in its Maritime Simulation Centre in Tasmania.
AMC Search said training would highlight the importance of using simulations for developing the skills required to operate MASS systems.
It said the session would provide participants with a demonstration of how AI reacts in differing navigation situations including a direct comparison of how humans and AI react in the same situation.
Robosys Automation chief strategy officer Nigel Lee said the company is excited to be delivering training in partnership with AMC Search.
“We … look forward to building upon this mutually beneficial long term partnership where we can jointly improve the safety and efficiency of sustainable and smart future maritime operations.”
AMC Search said it chose Robosys’ Voyager AI software for the delivery of its training programs in Tasmania because it offers simple, flexible mission and operational user defined settings for both crewed and uncrewed vessels.
Voyager AI also includes “explainable AI” based compliance to support both autonomous vessels as well as crewed ships with automatic Collision Avoidance Decision Aid (CADA) support.
