Efficient, interconnected, sustainable #2: Mastering the Ongoing Changes
Through the exploration of cutting-edge technologies and innovative platforms, from the power of IoT to the precision of AI, we’ve seen how the maritime industry is being reshaped for the better. Lufthansa Industry Solutions (LHIND) continues to lead the charge, bridging the gap between traditional practices and the digital frontier, ensuring a resilient, dynamic, and sustainable maritime future.
In the first part of this chapter, we embarked on a journey to uncover how LHIND is spearheading the transformation towards Shipping Company 4.0, leveraging digital innovations to pave the way for a more efficient, interconnected, and sustainable maritime industry. We explored a range of pioneering technologies and platforms, from digital twins and AI-powered services to smart labels and sustainability management tools, each playing a crucial role in redefining the operational landscape of shipping.
As we venture further into the digital age, it becomes clear that the foundation of Shipping Company 4.0 rests upon a diverse and powerful technology stack, designed to meet the unique needs of the modern maritime sector. This next phase of our exploration delves into the critical technologies that constitute this stack, including satellite-based communication systems enhanced by 5G technology, APIs for seamless data exchange, and data analytics for informed decision-making, among others. These technologies are not merely tools but are the building blocks of a new digital ecosystem that transforms ships from mere vessels into integrated service platforms.
Our journey continues as we examine the implications of distributed ledger technology for secure data sharing, the utilization of drones for monitoring and inspection, the adoption of edge computing for real-time data processing, and the innovative uses of IoT, AI, and computer vision in automating and optimizing maritime operations. Each element of the Shipping Company 4.0 technology stack brings us closer to realizing a future where digitalization empowers the maritime industry to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Join us as we further explore these transformative technologies and their potential to reshape the maritime industry’s future.
The Shipping Company 4.0 technology stack
Depending on the specific needs of the customers and the application, Shipping Company 4.0 combines a variety of different technologies. In the following, we will have a look at some of the technologies and show their relevance for the modern shipping company and shipping industry.
1. Satellite-based systems and 5G mobile communications standard
Satellite-based systems such as Starlink are of great importance for the communication of ships on the high seas. They are complemented by 5G mobile technology, especially near ports. Here, the higher speed, lower latency, lower costs and greater network capacity also enable complex IoT applications involving the transmission of large amounts of data. A 5G campus network at Lufthansa Technik allows customers seamless video access to the maintenance workshop during engine overhauls. High-resolution video streaming allows customers to inspect dismantled parts remotely and to make decisions based on this information.
Significance for shipping & companies in the industry: Starlink is becoming a key technology for communication via satellites, where no internet connection is possible via standard mobile networks. As a result, this is an important tool for ships to use for the exchange data and information. 5G creates the possibility for the use of autonomous technologies — for example in the control of ships near ports, which depend on particularly fast data exchange. For example, network slicing enables maritime companies to build their own campus networks and use them for particularly critical applications or emergency communications. Detailed repair and maintenance work carried out remotely for which high-resolution video transmissions are necessary also become possible in this way.
2. API
Different applications and partners can interact with each other via programmable interfaces. With increasing standardization, APIs ensure a low-delay exchange of information.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: The connection of the most diverse systems and data sources is decisive for the success of digital transformations, but requires common standards and interfaces that enable applications to interact with each other in the first place. This is precisely why APIs are crucial for Shipping Company 4.0.
3. Data Analytics
The analysis of data — also in combination with a digital twin — can help to improve business decisions and processes. Data analysis uses statistical and mathematical models for this purpose and draws on the possibilities of machine learning.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: Shipping companies can collect data from ships and other facilities in real time and bundle it in a digital twin. With the help of data analytics, they can now shed additional light on this data and gain further additional insights for the further development of their own business model.
4. Distributed Ledger Technology
The best-known distributed ledger technology is the blockchain. However, DLT refers to a variety of decentralized database technologies that allow multiple users to store and share data in a secure and transparent way.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: This technology can offer protection against data manipulation through the unalterable documentation of transactions. DLT can be used, for example, to store maintenance data. DLT also offers a variety of possibilities for the financing of ships or trade processes. Finally, DLT could play a central role in the digitalization of the bill of lading.
5. Drones
The term “unmanned aerial vehicle” refers to all types of unmanned aerial vehicles. Drones can be both remote-controlled and autonomous.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: Monitoring facilities is often a complicated undertaking for shipping companies. Autonomous drones can be of use by carrying out inspections independently or can also be used for monitoring in critical sea areas.
6. Edge computing
With this technology, data processing takes place directly at the “edge” of the network. The hosting hardware is located outside the cloud data centers. The systems are managed centrally from the cloud. As a result, this reduces latency and enables real-time decisions. In this way, faster data processing and higher efficiency of IoT and other applications are possible.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: Edge computing enables smart devices to process and analyze data from sensors directly on board the ships and in real time. Permanent transmission, to a cloud environment, for example, is not necessary and can be done when ships are near the coast and can rely on classic mobile phone connections.
7. IoT (Internet of things)
IoT — the Internet of Things — describes a network of physical objects and devices that are connected to each other and to the Internet. They collect data and exchange it with each other. In this way, they make it possible to automate processes and interactions.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: By integrating IoT technologies into shipping, ships and their cargo can be monitored around the clock via sensors and cameras. Data on the location, speed of a ship, temperature or humidity in a container and other important factors can be collected in real time and forwarded to the ship’s personnel or other control centers. At the same time, however, it is always important to limit the amount of data used to keep energy consumption low and to extend the useful life of the devices without changing batteries.
8. Artificial intelligence
At the latest since the emergence of ChatGPT and other generative AI, artificial intelligence has been at the center of attention. Basically, AI refers to technologies that enable machines to imitate human-like intelligence and behavioral patterns.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: AI is at the core of many highly automated and autonomous systems. Tasks that are otherwise performed by humans can be outsourced to the machine through AI. This AI technology can be utilized, for example, in monitoring processes, as well as in loading and unloading, or in ship navigation. But it can also help to relieve the administration of a shipping company or optimize route planning.
9. Computer vision
Understanding, analyzing, and interpreting digital images and videos is the strength of computer vision. To do this, the technology extracts patterns and features from the footage to recognize objects and scenes.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: From detecting potential dangers on board to controlling ships, there are a multitude of possible applications for computer vision. Among other things, autonomously flying drones can take pictures of facilities and evaluate them with the help of computer vision. However, shipping companies can also use the technology to integrate information stored on paper into digital processes, for example.
10. Metaverse
Metaverse is an enhanced version of the internet that enables new forms of interaction through 3D and virtual reality technology.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: The digital twin of a ship, i.e. its digital image, can be walked around completely virtually in a metaverse environment. The metaverse environment can also be used for training employees, for example.
11. Microservices and Cloud
By dividing applications into small, autonomous, and independently scalable services, software systems can be built that run more flexibly and reliably at the same time. Microservices are designed and built to be scalable and are often operated in the cloud. If a microservice fails, a new one is automatically added. Cloud architectures offer increased accessibility and seamless data exchange between users and applications, as data is centralized and accessible via the internet. This leads to improved collaboration and global networking.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: Shipping companies benefit from agile and flexible systems through microservices. Especially in view of the enormous technological development, microservices offer shipping companies several advantages. For example, central services can be ramped up or down according to the needs of the customers and thus also save operating costs. Furthermore, microservices enable higher availability due to the decoupling of systems. Thanks to modern languages such as Go or Rust, microservices generate significantly lower memory and processor requirements than JAVA, which leads to lower costs, especially in the cloud.
12. NFC
With this wireless technology, devices that are in close proximity to each other communicate with each other. NFC (Near Field Communication) uses high-frequency radio waves to exchange data between devices.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: NFC technology can be used for identification and authorization on ships, for example. It could replace paper-based processes and checklists.
13. Robotics
A robot is basically a programmable device that is capable of automatically performing tasks that are normally performed by humans. A robot uses sensors, actuators, computers, and software to do this. In this respect, robots are the further development of smart devices. While the use of robots is already established practice in the manufacturing industry, other sectors can also benefit from the technology in various ways.
RPA (Robotic Process Automation) should also be mentioned in this context. Here, software robots — bots — take over many recurring processes.
Significance for shipping & shipping companies: Perform dangerous or repetitive tasks that are risky or tiring for humans. For example, autonomous robots can be used to fight fires or inspect gas or chemical tanks. However, robots can also perform maintenance tasks. The use of RPAs can also serve to automate processes without having to adapt the underlying systems. Thus, RPAs can also be used as a transitional technology to be able to use older systems more efficiently until they are replaced.
A Recap and Look Ahead
As we conclude our exploration of Shipping Company 4.0, we’ve navigated through the profound impact of digital transformation within the maritime industry, spearheaded by Lufthansa Industry Solutions. From the initial steps of understanding the strategic importance of digitalization, leveraging insights from the aviation sector, to diving deep into the myriad of technologies shaping the future of shipping, this journey has unveiled the blueprint for a sustainable, efficient, and interconnected maritime ecosystem.
We began by spotlighting the innovative products and solutions, such as digital twins and smart labels, that are setting the stage for operational excellence. Our journey then transitioned to a comprehensive overview of the Shipping Company 4.0 technology stack, highlighting key technologies like satellite-based systems, 5G, APIs, data analytics, and beyond. Each of these technologies plays a pivotal role in enhancing communication, improving data exchange, and driving intelligent decision-making processes. Furthermore, we delved into how distributed ledger technology, drones, edge computing, IoT, AI, and computer vision are not just futuristic concepts but practical tools being integrated today to redefine maritime logistics.
In essence, this chapter underscores the critical importance of adopting a holistic and data-driven digitalization strategy, tailor-made to the unique requirements of each shipping entity. By embracing modern technologies and focusing on customer and employee-centric designs, Shipping Company 4.0 embodies a vision where digital innovation is the cornerstone of market competitiveness, environmental stewardship, and operational agility.
As we set our sights on the horizon, the journey towards digital transformation in the maritime industry is far from over. The innovations and technologies discussed are merely the beginning. The future holds endless possibilities for further advancements, promising a dynamic and resilient shipping industry capable of navigating the challenges of the 21st century and beyond. Let us continue to steer the course of progress, charting a path towards a more connected, efficient, and sustainable maritime world with Lufthansa Industry Solutions leading the way.
