ABS Executive Lays out Vision for Future of Shipping

(Shanghai) ABS, a leading provider of classification services to the global marine and offshore industries, participated in the 2017 Marintec China conference in Shanghai, China, where ABS Executive Vice President for Global Marine Dr. Kirsi Tikka chaired a panel session on the marine industry’s journey to autonomy and the collective benefits realized along the way. 

“With fast-paced advances in technology, we are on a journey to autonomous transportation at sea,” Tikka said. “For the shipping industry, at sea and ashore, it will be a gradual process of evolution.”

Tikka described the benefits that will come during interim phases of the marine industry’s voyage to autonomous shipping. “The transition to the next generation of shipping is fueled by automation, data and connectivity. Ultimately, success will rely on an iterative process that requires designing, building and testing interim outcomes. The industry will increasingly apply a systems engineering-based approach to build in robustness and reliability into the design. This process can increase the reliability of navigation, propulsion, auxiliaries, and communication – all of which will contribute to improving safety and efficiency. If implemented correctly, evolutionary development will introduce significant benefits to shipping at each phase, before we reach autonomy on a larger scale.”

Tikka went on to discuss how a new talent profile with different skills will be necessary as the industry moves to autonomy. “While we transition to further autonomy, increased automation and connectivity will change how the crews interact with ship systems and shore-based support. Managing significant change, in an industry where changes are adopted slowly, requires innovative thinking and a diverse blend of education and experience.” 

Tikka closed, “The role of class, with its strong focus on safety, is a fundamental component in the path toward smart shipping. With increases in automation and digitization, confidence in quality, reliability and cyber security will be key to ushering in a new era of smart shipping.”

Marintec China, organized by UBM Asia, is one of the top industry conferences in China, providing a platform for marine professionals and influential leaders to gather to discuss the industry’s most pressing technical and operational challenges.

About ABS 

Founded in 1862, ABS is a leading international classification organization devoted to promoting the security of life and property and preserving the natural environment through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine and offshore assets.