New Norwegian smart docking system aims to prevent collisions at fish farms

Maritime companies Zeabuz and Damen Folla have unveiled a new smart docking system designed to help aquaculture operators avoid collisions with underwater objects.

Thanks to its comprehensive view of infrastructure both above and below the waterline, the ZeaWatch Docking Assist system will help reduce downtime and repair costs.

According to Damen Folla's Chief Commercial Officer, Stig Rune Nørbech, fish farms experience numerous incidents throughout the year when vessels collide with infrastructure. This results in downtime and costly repairs.

"In the automotive industry and in previous maritime applications, the objective has been to detect objects above or on the waterline. In aquaculture, however, much of the infrastructure is located underwater and is therefore not visible to vessel operators," he explained.

The system combines cameras, 4D radar, sonar and GNSS. Through a bird's-eye view, with distance measurements and a traffic-light warning system, operators can detect nearby objects and monitor their proximity during manoeuvres.

Zeabuz is a Norwegian technology company that develops systems enabling vessels to navigate, avoid obstacles, dock autonomously, and be controlled remotely.

For its part, Damen Folla, a company affiliated with the Damen Group, builds workboats for fish farms and develops solutions tailored to offshore operations.

Likewise, the two companies are collaborating on the new 7-metre HDPE Damen vessel, ZeaFalcon, which integrates a Zeabuz autonomous system. During its presentation, the vessel will demonstrate its capabilities in the harbour.

"Our approach to autonomous technology and navigation support systems is not aimed at replacing the crew. What we are seeking to do is develop solutions that support operators, making their work safer, more efficient and more productive," concludes Zeabuz CEO Øyvind Smogeli.