Fed. Olsen Express has become the first shipping company in the world to use an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) system to detect objects at sea.
The new system installed on the Bajamar Express trimaran uses multi-target thermal cameras and radar signal processing. To improve safety by detecting surface objects at short and medium distances.
Furthermore, the system, developed in partnership with Aeromarine and SEA.AI, represents a major advancement in maritime safety.
The AI-based technology enhances detection capabilities by combining high-definition video processing with thermal cameras. Additionally, it is currently in the final testing phase and, once validated, will be implemented across the company’s fleet.
Farid, Head of Technical Department. Ivan Fernandes of Olsen Express highlighted the system’s impact, noting that these multi-target thermal cameras are like a third lieutenant always watching the bow of the ship. However, the system issues warnings when objects are detected, thereby improving safety measures.
SEA.AI’s equipment installed outside the vessel includes two high-resolution daytime cameras and two thermal imaging cameras for identifying floating obstacles such as containers, logs, and driftboats.
They have launched the world’s first ferry to use an AI-based surface object detection system.
Fred. Olsen Platform reported that the system works effectively at night and helps identify marine life.
Diogo Arreda, SEA.AI Country Director and Sales Director expressed pride in the partnership. And said it was an honor to launch the advanced high-speed charging technology with Farid Olsen Express.
First tested on sailboats, the SEA.AI system was inspired by automotive collision avoidance technology and reduces the “digital noise” caused by sea conditions to provide accurate object detection.
The system uses computer vision and deep learning to provide real-time visual and thermal data. Moreover, it displays the results on the bridge screen and automatically alerts the crew when objects approach the ship’s path.
This is a unique investment. With this cutting-edge technology, Olsen Express demonstrates the company’s commitment to maritime safety, environmental protection, and marine life conservation. However, it continues a 50-year tradition of pioneering advances in shipping.
