Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and MELTIN MMI have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to install MELTIN’s remotely controlled robots onboard MOL’s vessels.

MELTIN’s remote-control robotic technology is being developed to use in areas such as dangerous, time-consuming work or duties done in extremely high and low-temperature environments. The technology will also help to reduce the workload on seafarers, particularly in tasks that present challenges to hands-on operation.

MOL and MELTIN have repeatedly studied the possibility of addressing a wide variety of issues in the ocean shipping industry by introducing the robotic technology. In addition, major advances have been made in the high-speed onboard telecommunication environment in recent years. MOL expects synergistic effects by combining improved telecommunication with MELTIN’s remote-control robotic technology.

The companies will push forward more discussion and action to study details specific to different vessel types and routes for introduction of remotely controlled robots and associated technologies, with an eye toward not only determining the feasibility of introduction and the level of onboard telecommunication technology required at sea, but also implementing Proof of Concept (PoC), which assumes practical use.