Reinforcement learning is opening new possibilities for intelligent maritime route planning. By combining Deep Q-Network algorithms with ship dynamics and wind effects, this approach generates smoother, more navigable routes than conventional methods. The findings highlight how AI can enhance operational efficiency, manoeuvrability and decision-making in complex, obstacle-constrained marine environments.

Digital transformation is redefining naval capability through data-centric architectures, digital twins and advanced decision-support tools. By integrating interoperable services, scalable platforms and virtualised systems, the Digital Warship concept enables faster decision cycles, enhanced operational awareness and greater adaptability, providing a foundation for more connected, predictive and resilient naval operations.

Advanced finite element modelling remains essential to the safety of large ships, but increasingly detailed meshing requirements are creating significant engineering workloads. This research introduces innovative mesh copy and restoration capabilities that streamline repetitive analysis tasks, accelerate structural assessment and improve efficiency, helping designers manage growing complexity while maintaining compliance with evolving classification standards.

Real-time posture monitoring is advancing safety and productivity in shipbuilding’s demanding work environments. By combining LiDAR-enabled smart devices, computer vision and 3D skeletal modelling, this research delivers accurate, non-contact assessment of worker movements, overcoming visibility challenges and creating valuable data to support safer operations, ergonomic improvements and workforce performance.

Model-based approval is reshaping ship design and classification by replacing document-heavy workflows with data-driven digital processes. Leveraging the OCX standard, automated FEA validation and lightweight model exchange, this approach streamlines analysis, improves traceability and enhances efficiency, demonstrating a compelling transition from traditional PDF reporting to integrated

A data-driven modular design methodology is helping shipbuilders address workforce shortages and knowledge loss. By combining machine learning, Design Structure Matrices and Multi-Domain Matrices, the approach identifies component relationships, streamlines design workflows and captures expert knowledge, enabling faster development cycles, improved efficiency and more effective transfer of critical engineering expertise.

Advanced marine simulation is transforming how ships and ports are designed together. Drawing on real-world merchant offshore and military projects this approach evaluates operational performance long before deployment enabling safer more efficient infrastructure and vessel designs. The findings demonstrate how simulation-driven insights can strengthen decisions, reduce risk and optimise outcomes

BOM-driven product development is emerging as a cornerstone of shipbuilding digitalisation. By integrating engineering, manufacturing and process data through structured E-BOM, M-BOM and BOP models within PLM environments, this approach improves traceability, data consistency and collaboration, offering a practical foundation for more efficient, connected and lifecycle-focused ship design and production

Feebate mechanisms are emerging as a powerful lever for maritime decarbonisation. Using multi-agent simulation to model shipping company behaviour, this research reveals how fuel charging and incentive schemes can accelerate adoption of alternative-fuel vessels, reduce emissions and shape industry investment decisions, while highlighting the critical importance of timely policy implementation.

Enhancing passenger comfort is driving new advances in maritime vibroacoustic engineering. By combining simulation techniques such as Statistical Energy Analysis, Ray Tracing and Finite Element Modelling with innovative tools including acoustic cameras and motion amplification, designers can predict, optimise and verify noise and vibration performance, delivering quieter, more comfortable and higher-quality onboard experiences.

The last two decades has seen an increasing emphasis, through terms like Digital Transformation and Industry 4.0, to do more with data using IT technology and embracing automation. In the marine industry, this has focused minds on targeting inefficient data handing processes or improving the way the humans are supported by tools. A negative characterisation of this progress would show concern towards job losses, yet humans are

In-service stability monitoring is transforming vessel safety by replacing periodic verification with continuous, data-driven assessment of stability performance. Combining onboard loading information, statistical analysis and signal-processing techniques, the approach tracks changes in vertical centre of gravity over time, delivering earlier insights, greater confidence and enhanced operational assurance for both crewed and autonomous vessels.