Italy’s Grimaldi Group Unveils Satellite Berthing Project For Improved Ship Docking

Grimaldi Group, the Italian logistics and transport company, has officially launched its latest project, which aims to change docking techniques for large pure car and truck carrier vessels.

The Grimaldi Satellite Berthing 2 (GSAB2) project represents a significant advancement in the implementation of satellite technology and powerful AI algorithms to improve port operations while prioritising safety and environmental sustainability.

Grimaldi Group is collaborating with the European Space Agency (ESA) on the second phase of a groundbreaking effort that began in 2022 as part of ESA’s Navigation Innovation and Support effort.

The first phase developed the groundwork for an assisted guidance system, paving the way for future advances in vessel navigation and automation.

The GSAB2 project, led by Grimaldi Deep S.p.A., involves a multinational team working together to push the boundaries of maritime technology.

This ambitious effort includes Kongsberg, a Norwegian company well-known for its competence in signal processing technology, and RINA services, which is in charge of testing and certification.

Collaboration with RINA Germany ensures a thorough approach to system validation and compliance.

One of GSAB2’s primary goals is to accomplish Autonomy Level 3, which allows vessels to make autonomous decisions while being supervised by humans.

Building on the success of its predecessor, GSAB, the project intends to validate the system’s readiness to meet Lloyd’s Register’s requirements for Autonomy Level 2, a critical milestone on the path to complete autonomy.

The basic technology of GSAB2 uses satellite-based multi-sensor technologies to improve port maneuver efficiency while reducing CO2 emissions.

The project intends to provide cutting-edge AI algorithms and a user-friendly interface for ship automation to improve safety and operational effectiveness.

Grimaldi Group intends to establish an advice system designed for safe and effective berthing operations based on insights gained during the first phase.

This system will include many aspects of autonomous navigation, including vessel tracking, berth planning, and situational awareness, and will culminate in an easy-to-use interface.

As GSAB2 proceeds, thorough Hazard Identification (HAZID) research will be done, setting the framework for determining crucial prerequisites and verification criteria for achieving Autonomy Level 3.

Key enabling technologies will be improved, and user interface philosophies will be carefully designed to allow smooth connection with existing control systems.

The launch of GSAB2 marks a new era in marine innovation, demonstrating Grimaldi Group’s dedication to creating a greener, safer future for global shipping.

With advances in AI and automation-ready to change industry standards, the journey toward autonomous vessel operations is accelerating, delivering exceptional efficiency and sustainability on the high seas.

Reference: Grimaldi Group, Port Technology

Italy’s Grimaldi Group Unveils Satellite Berthing Project For Improved Ship Docking appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News