In an ambitious attempt to revolutionize the Danish shipbuilding industry, the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), together with several Danish shipyards and companies, has initiated a research project aimed at integrating robot technology and artificial intelligence (AI) into ship production. This initiative is a response to the acute shortage of labor in the maritime sector. The project, funded with 33 million Danish kroner from the Innovation Fund and with a total budget of 47 million kroner, will take place at SDU’s Center for Large Structure Production (LSP) over the next four and a half years. Researchers there will develop automation solutions to streamline and possibly revolutionize the construction process for everything from ferries to frigates.
One of the most striking innovations at SDU LSP is a ten-meter high gantry crane equipped with four robotic arms. This crane will be able to handle various tools such as welding equipment, paint sprayers, and grinding discs. Additionally, it will use advanced cameras to monitor and ensure the quality of the work performed. “The industry has long relied on manual labor, which is difficult to find and has been challenging to automate due to the large scales at which we operate,” explains Professor Christian Schlette, head of SDU LSP. “With this project, we have the opportunity to address these challenges using advanced technology.”
In addition to improving efficiency and reducing dependence on manual labor, the project is expected to strengthen the global competitiveness of the Danish maritime industry. Jenny Bratt, director of Danish Maritime, emphasizes the significance of the project: “We expect it to provide entirely new production possibilities and hopefully help address future labor shortage challenges.” The physical infrastructure for these innovative technologies is currently being constructed at Odense Harbor, marking a concrete step towards the future of shipbuilding.
Eventually, the robots will also be able to produce ship modules based on automatic programming from virtual 3D models, further revolutionizing the way ships are built in Denmark.