Hanwha Ocean Develops System Measuring Ship Draft Using Drone and AI

Reducing Measurement Time and Enhancing Work Safety

Hanwha Ocean announced on the 20th that it has developed a system that uses drones and artificial intelligence (AI) technology to capture and measure a ship's draft. Draft refers to the depth to which a ship's hull is submerged underwater. It is the vertical distance from the water surface to the lowest part of the hull.

By applying the technology introduced by Hanwha Ocean this time, it is possible to capture the draft with a drone and simultaneously perform measurement tasks such as ship weight and distortion in real time through the AI system.

With the drone draft capturing system, tasks that previously required 3 to 4 people can now be performed by one person. Measurement time can be significantly reduced from 2 hours to less than 30 minutes.

Shipyards have traditionally measured the draft by moving around six points near the ship using boats. Due to the nature of the work conducted at sea, constant vigilance was required. Now, the drone measurement system greatly enhances safety as well.

Conceptual diagram of drone draft shooting developed by Hanwha Ocean [Photo by Hanwha Ocean]

Hanwha Ocean verified the accuracy of this technology through more than 100 experiments on all types of ships. The company aims to receive classification society certification for this technology within the first half of the year and apply it to actual ships. Domestic patents have already been filed, and overseas patents have also been applied for.

Typically, ships undergo sea trials after construction is completed. Draft measurement is essential to identify potential issues related to the center of gravity and weight during this process. As the cargo load on a ship increases, the draft deepens, increasing the risk of ship sinking accordingly.

A Hanwha Ocean official stated, "We are considering expanding the application of this system, which combines drone and AI technology, to various fields of shipbuilding."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.