Methodology and challenges of implementing advanced technological solutions in small and medium shipyards: the case study of the Mari4_YARD project

Small to medium-sized shipyards play a crucial role in the European naval industry. However, the globalization of technology has increased competition, posing significant challenges to shipyards, particularly in domestic markets for short sea, work, and inland vessels. Many shipyard operations still rely on manual, labor-intensive tasks performed by highly skilled operators. In response, the adoption of new tools is essential to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. This paper presents a methodology for developing a human-centric portfolio of advanced technologies tailored for shipyard environments, covering processes such as shipbuilding, retrofitting, outfitting, and maintenance. The proposed technological solutions, which have achieved high technology readiness levels, include 3D modeling and digitalization, robotics, augmented and virtual reality, and occupational exoskeletons. Key findings from real-scale demonstrations are discussed, along with major development and implementation challenges. Finally, best practices and recommendations are provided to support both technology developers seeking fully tested tools and end users aiming for seamless adoption.

DDC Class

623: Military Engineering and Marine Engineering

670: Manufacturing

Publication version

publishedVersion

Lizenz

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Name

electronics-14-01597.pdf

Size

34.95 MB

Format

Adobe PDF

Options

Methodology and challenges of implementing advanced technological solutions in small and medium shipyards: the case study of the Mari4_YARD project