Japan’s Maritime Industry Revolution OCEANS Laboratory

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This initiative marks a significant step toward transforming Japan’s maritime industry through cutting-edge research, industry-academia collaboration, and advanced technology integration. Here are some key takeaways:

Recognizing these urgent challenges, The University of Osaka has launched the Open Collaboration Laboratory for Enabling Advanced Marine Systems (OCEANS) under the Industry on Campus initiative. The laboratory will serve as a hub for advanced research, industry collaboration, and next-generation talent development in the maritime sector.

  • Duration: April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2030

  • Location: Techno Alliance Building A804-806, The University of Osaka

  • Faculty & Research Team:

    • Full-Time Faculty: Specially Appointed Assoc. Prof. Yasuo Ichinose, Specially Appointed Asst. Prof. Kouki Wakita

    • Part-Time Faculty: Experts from naval architecture, AI, and automation fields

    • Visiting Faculty: Industry leaders (to be selected)

    • Industry Collaboration: Approximately 10 researchers from participating maritime companies

The Need for Transformation

  • The maritime sector is facing geopolitical, economic, environmental, and technological challenges.

  • To stay competitive, Japan must rapidly innovate in ship design, manufacturing, and automation.

  • Net-zero GHG emissions by 2050 is a major goal, necessitating alternative fuels and advanced automation.

The Role of the OCEANS Laboratory

  • Established at The University of Osaka under the Industry on Campus program.

  • Focuses on systems engineering, AI applications, digital shipyards, and resilience in supply chains.

  • Aims to enhance Japan’s global competitiveness in shipbuilding, shipping, and classification.

Research and Industry Collaboration

  • Interdisciplinary research in naval architecture, AI, and automation.

  • Collaboration with leading maritime companies and classification societies.

  • Development of next-generation maritime professionals through education and training.

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Source: ClassNK