Technology ahead – the Schulte Group engages in situational awareness software

The impact of new technologies on the future of shipping is one of the most-discussed topics in the industry at present. Different companies and initiatives are releasing concepts and projects in the field of automated or even autonomous shipping. At the same time, BSM is receiving the first customer requests for management of ships equipped with autonomous systems.

In order to participate in this development, the Schulte Group has decided to partner up with the San Francisco-based software company SHONE on a test of their situational awareness software on board. The system, which will be installed on four ships for a period of six months, will compile the different sources of navigational information like radar, AIS, ECDIS and GPS and combine it with weather, environmental and machinery data. From this information, the software provides a unique overview on the ship’s surroundings and operating condition. Two of the test ships will additionally be equipped with cameras to complete the picture. The SHONE machine learning algorithm will augment and highlight objects on screen to raise further awareness as well as assist the bridge crew during look-out, manoeuvring and voyage planning. Furthermore, the system and its features shall be used in maritime training in order to provide real-life situations and a realistic training experience. Detailed feedback from our colleagues at sea will be taken into account when evaluating the overall success of the test. Based on this overall assessment it will be decided whether the system will be rolled-out throughout the fleet to a larger extent.

We are excited to discover the potential and are optimistic that the SHONE software will contribute to operational safety, environmental protection and cost-efficiency. It shall support us to keep the Schulte Group’s top position in providing first-class services to our customers!

Lennart Swoboda (BS-DE)
Project Manager Finance & Controlling