Vision of ship intelligence with futuristic oX bridge concept

Called the future operator experience concept, or ‘oX’, Rolls-Royce, VTT’s researchers and Aalto University have developed the new bridge to offer the crew smart workstations that automatically recognise individuals when they walk into the bridge, and adjust to their own preferences.
The windows of the bridge serve as augmented reality displays of the vessel’s surroundings, including visualisation of potential hazards that would otherwise be invisible to the human eye. The system can, for example, pinpoint sea ice or tug boats and other craft that may not be visible to the crew, especially on large container ships. The oX concept has been developed by studying user experience on ships today, and will transform the operating environment for crews on board large cargo ships and platform supply vessels, Rolls-Royce said. Using advanced 3D animation to illustrate what could be achieved in the next decade, the new concept will utilise the latest digital techniques to create a safer and more energy efficient ship operations.
Mikael Makinen, president of the marine division at Rolls-Royce, said: “We are entering a truly exciting period in the history of shipping, where technology, and in particular the smart use of big data is going to drive the next generation of ships. Over the next ten to 20 years we believe ship intelligence is going to be the driving force that will determine the future of our industry, the type of ships at sea, and the competence levels required from tomorrow’s seafarers.The new oX bridge concept is one example of ship intelligence and is a glimpse into the future where significant advances to navigation, efficiency of operations and safety at sea, can be achieved.”