A new navigational safety, sensor and computer-based bridge technology is being tested to reduce the risk of ship and workboat collisions in congested waters.

Ray Carriers is trialling an artificial intelligent (AI) navigation aid to provide additional information to ship masters about surrounding vessels and hazards.

Orca AI uses imaging technology and AI to help navigators to avoid collisions. It is designed for use in crowded waterways and in the lowest visibility to provide information to bridge teams. It supplements existing onboard sensors, such as AIS, radar and GPS, with thermal and low light cameras.

These are combined with an AI-powered navigation and vessel tracking system, which helps captains to detect ships and navigation hazards at both long and short distances. It delivers information on the future passage and track of other vessels to enable navigators to remedy their course and avoid a collision.

Orca AI will recommend course corrections and actions to avoid potentially dangerous situations. It is easy to retrofit ships with this technology, which is fully compatible with international shipping and safety regulations.

Orca AI co-founder and chief executive Yarden Gross says this technology “tackles the hardest part of navigation head-on with an easy-to-use tool that empowers crews with a more detailed picture of their surroundings in situations with little to no visibility.”

He explains that it is most effective in situations with minimal visibility such as in severe weather and low-light conditions. “Our technology is showing the benefits that can be enjoyed with an advanced system operated by the crew while building the framework for the future of maritime navigation,” says Mr Gross.

He thinks this AI technology will enable shipping to develop more advanced ship operations. “The progression towards autonomous ships needs to be gradual,” he explains. “First, by demonstrating value on the water with insight and recommendations and then taking control in specific voyage segments.”