<a href="https://www.metalnox.com/?utm_campaign=forum/">METALNOX</a> was founded in 1987 and has built its reputation on innovation and continuous improvement. Its workshops in Mallorca are fully certified and equipped to deliver excellence on every project. The company specializes in propeller overhaul and repair — a task that demands high precision and tight tolerances. It is the only company in the Mediterranean approved by ABS as an Approved Tailshaft Repair Facility. This certification is not easily earned; it reflects decades of rigorous quality management and technical expertise that few competitors can match. <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1783321502105-1783321502105.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />For over three decades, METALNOX has served a demanding clientele that includes commercial shipping lines, naval vessels, and luxury yachts. Each customer expects the same outcome: a propeller restored to original specifications, with no compromise on safety or performance. Meeting these expectations requires not only skilled craftsmanship but also the right measurement tools. And for years, the tools available to the industry fell short of what METALNOX truly needed.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1783321513422-1783321513422.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib" /><h2 id="isPasted">Challenges of Traditional Methods</h2>Before adopting 3D scanning technology, METALNOX relied on conventional measurement techniques that had changed little over the years. The process was time‑consuming, labor‑intensive, and inherently limited in scope. Inspecting a propeller meant checking only a handful of specific points - not the full three‑dimensional shape. This point‑by‑point approach left significant gaps in the data, and critical issues like gradual thickness reduction often went completely unnoticed until problems manifested during operation.The limitations of traditional methods extended beyond measurement accuracy. Logistics added another layer of difficulty. Large propellers - some weighing several tons and spanning over two meters in diameter - had to be moved from the repair table to a separate measuring table. This required overhead cranes, careful rigging, and multiple personnel. Each movement introduced the risk of accidental damage and consumed valuable time that could have been spent on actual repair work. For a busy workshop juggling multiple projects, these repeated handling steps created a persistent bottleneck that slowed down every job.Customers demanded greater precision and tighter tolerances with each passing year. As vessels become more sophisticated and fuel efficiency standards grow stricter, the allowable margin for error in propeller geometry continues to shrink. METALNOX recognized that its existing workflow could not keep pace with these rising expectations. The company needed to improve its propeller overhaul and repair processes - not incrementally, but fundamentally.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1783321541798-1783321541798.jpeg" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />Faster, More Complete, and Less Disruptive SolutionThe turning point came when METALNOX discovered SHINING 3D. After evaluating several options, the team chose the FreeScan Combo Series — a decision driven by three key factors: compatibility, accuracy, and portability.The FreeScan Combo Series integrates seamlessly with the analysis software METALNOX already used daily. This meant no costly retraining, no disruption to established workflows, and no need to migrate years of historical data to a new platform. The scanner delivers accuracy up to 0.02 mm — a level of precision that captures details almost impossible to detect with traditional tools. For propeller repair, where blade surface deviations as small as 0.1 mm can affect hydrodynamic performance, this level of accuracy is transformative.But what truly set the FreeScan Combo Series apart was its portability. Unlike bulky fixed‑mount systems, it is a handheld device that can be carried directly to the worksite. The team no longer needs to move heavy propellers to a measuring table. Instead, scans are performed right where the parts sit on the repair table — eliminating the logistical nightmare that had plagued the workshop for years.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1783321710910-1783321710909.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib" /><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1783321724140-1783321724140.jpeg" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />Now, instead of moving large parts to a measuring table, the team can measure and analyze propellers directly at the worksite. This has significantly reduced handling times and made the process much more efficient. A concrete example is the "Phoenix" project. Using 3D digitization, they improved two propellers with a diameter of over 2,200 mm, enhancing their class — meaning their efficiency and performance. Normally, this work would have been more laborious, with repeated movements between the work table and the measuring table. With this technology, they reduced the scanning time by nearly 20%.<h2>Measurable Results: Time Savings and Better </h2><h3 id="isPasted">Accuracy</h3>The benefits of adopting the FreeScan Combo Series extend well beyond the "Phoenix" project. Across the workshop, METALNOX has transformed how it approaches propeller inspection and repair.With the Multifunctional Metrology Laser 3D Scanner, the team can now inspect and repair larger propellers — both fixed and variable pitch — that previously took much more time and effort with analog methods, requiring additional elements such as templates and tools.Including a 3D scanner as a work tool has improved the services METALNOX provides to its clients. The team can now perform assessments in a short time without disassembling components. At the same time, the scanner has improved the quality of propeller analysis, because they can examine the entire volume of the part — not just the radii established for the ISO 484 standard.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1783321749925-1783321749925.jpeg" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />This portable metrology‑grade 3D scanner is not merely a measurement device — it is an enabler of better customer outcomes. By reducing turnaround times and improving measurement accuracy, METALNOX has strengthened its competitive position in a demanding market.<h3>Gastón Dubois, Production Manager at Grupo METALNOX, explains:</h3><blockquote>For us, one of the biggest benefits we've seen is the ability to offer our clients improved quality and speed of service. We can perform much faster and more accurate assesments without having to disassemble components or move them from the repair table to the measuring table, which represents a saving of time and costs for both them and us.</blockquote><h3 id="isPasted">A Smarter Path to Propeller Maintenance</h3>The FreeScan Combo Series from SHINING 3D enables workshops like METALNOX to achieve faster, more accurate propeller inspections without the logistical burden of moving heavy parts. Its portability, 0.02 mm accuracy, and seamless integration with existing analysis software make it a practical solution for naval maintenance operations where time and precision directly impact the bottom line.Beyond individual success stories like METALNOX, SHINING 3D is committed to equipping the broader marine and industrial maintenance sectors with metrology grade 3D scanning solutions that replace outdated, labor intensive methods. By making high precision inspection portable, affordable, and easy to integrate into existing workflows, SHINING 3D helps shipyards, propeller repair shops, and component manufacturers reduce downtime, cut operational costs, and elevate quality standards. As the industry moves toward fully digital quality control, SHINING 3D’s portfolio — from handheld scanners to automated inspection systems — provides the foundational technology to turn that vision into reality.

A Spanish propeller repair specialist boosted inspection efficiency by nearly 20% with the FreeScan Combo Series. By scanning large propellers in place, METALNOX eliminated the need to move heavy components, simplifying workflows and reducing inspection time.

How a Metrology Laser 3D Scanner Helped METALNOX Cut Propeller Repair Time by 20%

<h2 id="isPasted">Traditional Boatbuilding Meets 3D Scanning Technology in Norway</h2>Norway has a long-standing tradition of boatbuilding, deeply rooted in craftsmanship and regional expertise. In areas near the Glomma river, this heritage remains active, with local builders continuing to rely on hands-on skills developed over generations.At the same time, traditional workflows often depend on manual measurement and iterative adjustments, which can be time-consuming and limit efficiency. To explore a more streamlined approach, Stian Marthinsen, CEO &amp; Founder of <a href="https://smi3d.no/">SMI3D AS</a>, initiated a project to digitize an 8-meter RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) hull.Working alongside his team, the objective was to capture accurate 3D data and establish a foundation for integrating technologies such as 3D scanning, CAD modeling, and simulation into the boatbuilding process.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1781519660298-8-meter+rigid+inflatable+boat+hull.jpeg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />8-meter rigid inflatable boat hull <h2 id="isPasted">Wireless Standalone 3D Scanning Solutions for Large Marine Structures</h2>The project combined traditional boatbuilding expertise with modern wireless standalone 3D scanning technology to capture both the overall geometry and fine details of the 8-meter RIB hull. Two standalone handheld scanners were used, each serving a distinct role within the workflow.<h3> <a href="https://www.shining3d.com/professional-solutions/all-in-one-3d-scanner/einscan-libre">EinScan Libre</a>: Fast capture of large-scale geometry</h3><ul><li>Large FOV (field of view) of up to 983 × 979 mm, enabling rapid acquisition of extensive hull surfaces</li><li>Well-suited for reflective and dark materials commonly found in marine environments</li><li>Built-in high-performance processor and onboard storage for fully standalone operation</li></ul><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1781519726382-1781519726382.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />EinScan Libre is ideal for efficiently capturing the overall shape of the 8-meter hull <h3 id="isPasted"><a href="https://www.shining3d.com/professional-solutions/all-in-one-laser-3d-scanner/einscan-rigil">EinScan Rigil</a>: High-detail scanning of complex components</h3><ul><li>High geometric resolution up to 0.05 mm for fine-detail capture</li><li>7 parallel laser lines mode for detailed features and fine structures</li><li>Flexible scanning modes to balance efficiency and detail in different areas</li></ul>Both scanners integrate Wi-Fi connectivity, onboard computing modules, and built-in displays, enabling full scanning and processing directly on the device. This all-in-one wireless design reduces reliance on external computers or power sources, improving mobility and simplifying on-site operation in marine environments.By combining these two systems, the team was able to efficiently capture complete 3D data of the hull—from overall geometry to fine structural details—within a streamlined and flexible workflow.<h2 id="isPasted">From 3D Scan Data to CAD: Enabling Reverse Engineering and Simulation</h2>The scanning process generated high-quality 3D data that can now be used for further engineering applications. Compared to traditional methods, this approach helps reduce manual work and accelerates data acquisition.The next step is to reverse engineer the scan data into a parametric CAD model. This digital model will enable:<ul><li>Design refinement and optimization</li><li>Integration with FEA (Finite Element Analysis)</li><li>Hull performance simulations</li></ul>By building on accurate scan data, the entire workflow becomes more efficient and better suited for modern engineering requirements.<h2 id="isPasted">3D Scanning for the Marine Industry: Improving Efficiency and Workflow</h2>This project highlights how 3D scanning can enhance traditional boatbuilding by bridging craftsmanship with digital engineering tools. From hull digitization to design optimization, adopting a data-driven workflow helps reduce labor time and improve overall efficiency.For maritime manufacturers looking to modernize their processes, SHINING 3D offers a range of solutions tailored to marine applications—from hull inspection and reverse engineering to large-scale 3D data capture.Looking to bring 3D scanning into your marine workflow? <a href="https://www.shining3d.com/3d-scanning-application-for-marine-industry">Click here</a> to discover how SHINING 3D supports applications from hull scanning to reverse engineering. Or <a href="https://www.shining3d.com/get-a-quote">talk to our experts</a> to find the right solution for your needs.

In Norway, boatbuilding is built on generations of craftsmanship—but even the most established traditions are evolving. By integrating wireless 3D scanning into the workflow, an 8-meter RIB hull was digitized to unlock a faster, more efficient approach to marine design and engineering.

3D Scanning for Boatbuilding: Digitizing a RIB Hull for an Optimized Marine Workflow

Marine scientists have long marveled at how animals like fish and seals swim so efficiently despite having different shapes. Their bodies are optimized for efficient, hydrodynamic aquatic navigation so they can exert minimal energy when traveling long distances.Autonomous vehicles can drift through the ocean in a similar way, collecting data about vast underwater environments. However, the shapes of these gliding machines are less diverse than what we find in marine life — go-to designs often resemble tubes or torpedoes, since they’re fairly hydrodynamic as well. Plus, testing new builds requires lots of real-world trial-and-error.Researchers from MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) and the University of Wisconsin at Madison propose that AI could help us explore uncharted glider designs more conveniently. Their method uses machine learning to test different 3D designs in a physics simulator, then molds them into more hydrodynamic shapes. The resulting model can be fabricated via a 3D printer using significantly less energy than hand-made ones. The MIT scientists say that this design pipeline could create new, more efficient machines that help oceanographers measure water temperature and salt levels, gather more detailed insights about currents, and monitor the impacts of climate change. The team demonstrated this potential by producing two gliders roughly the size of a boogie board: a two-winged machine resembling an airplane, and a unique, four-winged object resembling a flat fish with four fins.Peter Yichen Chen, MIT CSAIL postdoc and co-lead researcher on the project, notes that these designs are just a few of the novel shapes his team’s approach can generate. “We’ve developed a semi-automated process that can help us test unconventional designs that would be very taxing for humans to design,” he says. “This level of shape diversity hasn’t been explored previously, so most of these designs haven’t been tested in the real world.”But how did AI come up with these ideas in the first place? First, the researchers found 3D models of over 20 conventional sea exploration shapes, such as submarines, whales, manta rays, and sharks. Then, they enclosed these models in “deformation cages” that map out different articulation points that the researchers pulled around to create new shapes.The CSAIL-led team built a dataset of conventional and deformed shapes before simulating how they would perform at different “angles-of-attack” — the direction a vessel will tilt as it glides through the water. For example, a swimmer may want to dive at a -30 degree angle to retrieve an item from a pool.These diverse shapes and angles of attack were then used as inputs for a neural network that essentially anticipates how efficiently a glider shape will perform at particular angles and optimizes it as needed.<h2 dir="ltr">Giving gliding robots a lift</h2>The team’s neural network simulates how a particular glider would react to underwater physics, aiming to capture how it moves forward and the force that drags against it. The goal: find the best lift-to-drag ratio, representing how much the glider is being held up compared to how much it’s being held back. The higher the ratio, the more efficiently the vehicle travels; the lower it is, the more the glider will slow down during its voyage.Lift-to-drag ratios are key for flying planes: At takeoff, you want to maximize lift to ensure it can glide well against wind currents, and when landing, you need sufficient force to drag it to a full stop.Niklas Hagemann, an MIT graduate student in architecture and CSAIL affiliate, notes that this ratio is just as useful if you want a similar gliding motion in the ocean.“Our pipeline modifies glider shapes to find the best lift-to-drag ratio, optimizing its performance underwater,” says Hagemann, who is also a co-lead author on a <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.00222">paper</a> that was presented at the International Conference on Robotics and Automation in June. “You can then export the top-performing designs so they can be 3D-printed.”<h2 dir="ltr">Going for a quick glide</h2>While their AI pipeline seemed realistic, the researchers needed to ensure its predictions about glider performance were accurate by experimenting in more lifelike environments.They first fabricated their two-wing design as a scaled-down vehicle resembling a paper airplane. This glider was taken to MIT’s Wright Brothers Wind Tunnel, an indoor space with fans that simulate wind flow. Placed at different angles, the glider’s predicted lift-to-drag ratio was only about 5 percent higher on average than the ones recorded in the wind experiments — a small difference between simulation and reality.A digital evaluation involving a visual, more complex physics simulator also supported the notion that the AI pipeline made fairly accurate predictions about how the gliders would move. It visualized how these machines would descend in 3D.To truly evaluate these gliders in the real world, though, the team needed to see how their devices would fare underwater. They printed two designs that performed the best at specific points-of-attack for this test: a jet-like device at 9 degrees and the four-wing vehicle at 30 degrees.Both shapes were fabricated in a 3D printer as hollow shells with small holes that flood when fully submerged. This lightweight design makes the vehicle easier to handle outside of the water and requires less material to be fabricated. The researchers placed a tube-like device inside these shell coverings, which housed a range of hardware, including a pump to change the glider’s buoyancy, a mass shifter (a device that controls the machine’s angle-of-attack), and electronic components.Each design outperformed a handmade torpedo-shaped glider by moving more efficiently across a pool. With higher lift-to-drag ratios than their counterpart, both AI-driven machines exerted less energy, similar to the effortless ways marine animals navigate the oceans.As much as the project is an encouraging step forward for glider design, the researchers are looking to narrow the gap between simulation and real-world performance. They are also hoping to develop machines that can react to sudden changes in currents, making the gliders more adaptable to seas and oceans.Chen adds that the team is looking to explore new types of shapes, particularly thinner glider designs. They intend to make their framework faster, perhaps bolstering it with new features that enable more customization, maneuverability, or even the creation of miniature vehicles.Chen and Hagemann co-led research on this project with OpenAI researcher Pingchuan Ma SM ’23, PhD ’25. They authored the paper with Wei Wang, a University of Wisconsin at Madison assistant professor and recent CSAIL postdoc; John Romanishin ’12, SM ’18, PhD ’23; and two MIT professors and CSAIL members: lab director Daniela Rus and senior author Wojciech Matusik. Their work was supported, in part, by a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) grant and the MIT-GIST Program.

MIT researchers used a new machine-learning method to produce two real-world underwater gliders: a two-winged machine resembling an airplane (lower right), and a unique, four-winged object (lower left). Credits:Image courtesy of the researchers.

An AI pipeline developed by CSAIL researchers enables unique hydrodynamic designs for bodyboard-sized vehicles that glide underwater and could help scientists gather marine data.

AI shapes autonomous underwater "gliders"

Underwater or aerial vehicles with dimples like golf balls could be more efficient and maneuverable, a new prototype developed at the University of Michigan has demonstrated.Golf ball dimples cut through pressure drag—the resistance force an object meets when moving through a fluid—propelling the ball 30% further than a smooth ball on average. Taking this as inspiration, a research team developed a spherical prototype with adjustable surface dimples and tested its aerodynamics in a controlled wind tunnel.“A dynamically programmable outer skin on an underwater vehicle could drastically reduce drag while eliminating the need for protruding appendages like fins or rudders for maneuvering. By actively adjusting its surface texture, the vehicle could achieve precise maneuverability with enhanced efficiency and control,” said <a href="https://name.engin.umich.edu/people/sareen-anchal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anchal Sareen</a>, an assistant professor of naval architecture and marine engineering and mechanical engineering at U-M and corresponding author of two studies published in Flow and The Physics of Fluids.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/De2VQYkdztM?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>These nimble vehicles could access typically hard-to-reach areas in the ocean while conducting surveillance, mapping new areas or collecting data on water conditions. The researchers formed the prototype by stretching a thin layer of latex over a hollow sphere dotted with holes, resembling a pickleball. A vacuum pump depressurizes the core, pulling the latex inwards to create precise dimples when switched on. Turning off the pump makes the sphere smooth again. <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1747749824433-Anchal-Sareen-Wind-Tunnel-Sphere-Morphing-500x333.jpg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />Anchal Sareen observes a 3D printed sphere suspended in a wind tunnel during testing. Credit: Jeremy Little, Michigan Engineering.To find out how the dimples affected drag, the sphere was put to the test within a three meter long wind tunnel, suspended by a thin rod and subjected to different wind velocities. For each flow condition, the dimple depth could be finely adjusted by shifting the vacuum pump’s strength. Drag was measured using a load cell, a sensor that detects force exerted by airflow on the object. At the same time, an aerosol was sprayed into the wind tunnel while a high-speed laser and camera captured the motion of the tiny particles as they flowed around the sphere. For high wind speeds, shallower dimples cut the drag more effectively while deeper dimples were more efficient at lower wind speeds. By adjusting dimple depth, the sphere reduced drag by 50% compared to a smooth counterpart for all conditions. “The adaptive skin setup is able to notice changes in the speed of the incoming air and adjust dimples accordingly to maintain drag reductions. Applying this concept to underwater vehicles would reduce both drag and fuel consumption,” said Rodrigo Vilumbrales-Garcia, a postdoctoral research fellow of naval architecture and marine engineering at U-M and contributing author to the studies.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1747749851147-Rodrigo-Vilumbrales-Garcia-Wind-Tunnel-Setup.jpg" style="width:832px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />Rodrigo Vilumbrales-Garcia, makes preparations for a wind tunnel before conducting experiments with the 3D printed sphere. Credit: Jeremy Little, Michigan Engineering. The smart morphable sphere can also generate lift, allowing for controlled movement. Often thought of as the upwards force responsible for keeping planes in the air, lift can work in any direction as long as it is perpendicular to the direction of the flow.To achieve this, researchers designed the inner skeleton with holes on only one side, causing the sphere to develop one smooth and one dimpled side when activated. This created asymmetric flow separation on the two sides of the sphere, deflecting the wake toward the smooth side. By Newton’s third law, the fluid applies an equal and opposite force toward the rough side, effectively pushing the sphere in the direction of the dimples. Dimples on the right generate force to the right while those on the left push left. This enables precise steering by selectively activating dimples on the desired side.The team tested the new sphere in the same wind tunnel setup with varying wind velocity and dimple depth. With the optimal dimple depth, the half rough/half smooth sphere generated lift forces up to 80% of the drag force. The lift generation was as strong as the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OSrvzNW9FE&amp;t=73s" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Magnus effect</a>, but instead of using rotation, it was created entirely by modifying the surface texture.“I was surprised that such a simple approach could produce results comparable to the Magnus efect, which requires continuous rotation,” said Putu Brahmanda Sudarsana, a graduate student of mechanical engineering at U-M and contributing author to the studies.“In the long run, this could benefit, for example, compact spherical robotic submarines that prioritize maneuverability over speed for exploration and inspection. Typically, these submarines would require multiple propulsion systems, but this mechanism could help reduce that need,” added Sudarsana. <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1747749913930-Putu-Brahmanda-Sudarsana-Sphere-Calibration.jpg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />Putu Brahmanda Sudarsana calibrates the morphable sphere at the U-M Marine Hydrodynamics Laboratory. Credit: Jeremy Little, Michigan Engineering.Looking ahead, Sareen anticipates exciting collaborations that combine expertise in materials science and soft robotics, further advancing the capabilities of this dynamic skin technology. “This smart dynamic skin technology could be a game-changer for unmanned aerial and underwater vehicles, offering a lightweight, energy-efficient, and highly responsive alternative to traditional jointed control surfaces. By enabling real-time adaptation to changing flow conditions, this innovation promises to enhance maneuverability, optimize performance, and unlock new possibilities for vehicle design,” added Sareen.

A spherical prototype with "nimble dimples" can change its surface from smooth to dimpled, cutting through drag and generating lift.

Maneuverable underwater vehicles inspired by golf balls

Offshore wind energy generation is big business. According to the Global Wind Energy Council, a total of 64.3GW of global offshore wind capacity was in operation across three continents and 19 countries by the end of 2022. More than 380GW of capacity is predicted to be added globally by 2032 [1].This is intensifying the search for suitable patches of marine real estate: the places in the oceans that offer the most promising combination of shallow sea (for ease of installation), good and reliable wind strength, and generally moderate waves. At the same time, wind farm developers need to satisfy national regulators that sensitive ecological sites are not going to be harmed by the installation or operation of wind turbines.One innovative solution leading the way is <a href="https://www.ocergy.com/ocg-data" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">OCG-Data</a>, a zero-emission environmental monitoring buoy that provides real-time, multi-sensor data. A key component of its data acquisition system is the <a href="https://www.movella.com/products/sensor-modules/xsens-mti-300-ahrs" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Xsens MTi-300 sensor</a>, which delivers critical wave motion analysis for offshore wind farm developers.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1744170462269-A%26M+-+Case+Study+Tachyssema+OCG-Data+Offshore+Platform.png" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />The OCG-Data offshore data acquisition platformOCG-Data: A floating marine environmental laboratoryThe OCG-Data platform provides a continuous, synchronized picture of the entire marine environment in its vicinity. The array of sensors on board includes vision and thermal cameras above and below the surface, microphones for listening to animal sounds, LiDAR and radar monitors, and sonar. This means that it can capture information about wildlife passing through the waters, and the prevailing weather conditions.The measurements from several instruments such as LiDAR and bird radar need to be adjusted based on accurate measurements of the OCG-Data motions. A log of the platform’s motion is based on sensor outputs from an <a href="https://www.movella.com/products/sensor-modules/xsens-mti-300-ahrs" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MTi-300 Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS),</a> which measures the 3D movement of the platform in real time as it is buffeted by the open ocean’s waves.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1744171516430-MTi-300+%28Large%29.png" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />The MTi300 measures the platform's 3D movement in real timeThe data processing and transmission system on the OCG-Data was developed by embedded vision and sensor systems specialist <a href="https://tachyssema.fr/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Tachysséma Développement</a>. It was a challenge to come up with a solution to handle the high-rate data output from the MTi-300, but Tachysséma Développement came up with a brilliant and ingenious solution. They developed a custom FPGA-based co-processor that can rapidly process data in parallel from up to eight sensor inputs. With this solution, the co-processor can smoothly process motion data from the MTi-300, ensuring accurate sensor fusion and precise environmental monitoring. <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1744171533430-A%26M+-+Case+Study+Tachyssema+Co-Processor+2+Views+Transparent.png" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />The Tachysséma Développement co-processor which handles motion sensor inputs from the MTi-300Nicolas Roddier, Director at Tachysséma Développment, explains why the MTi-300 was the best choice for this demanding application: ‘Tachysséma Développement has been using this motion sensor for more than five years in other systems, and it has operated reliably throughout that time. For the OCG-Data installation, it was an obvious choice, because the MTi sensors are widely used in marine applications. With its IP67-rated enclosure and robust design, it can withstand the harsh conditions experienced in the Mediterranean Sea. With RS-422 and RS-232 interfaces, the MTi-300 is easy to interface to.’Outstanding customer support was the extra benefit of using an MTi product. ‘Whenever we had a question about how to integrate the MTi-300 with the co-processor module, the Xsens team was always able to help us’,  continued Nicolas Roddier.As increasing numbers of wind turbines are installed, helping provide zero-carbon energy to enable the world’s transition away from fossil fuels, Tachysséma Développement’s co-processor module and the MTi-300 play a crucial role in capturing the data that wind farm developers need.[1] Global Offshore Wind Report 2023, at <a href="https://gwec.net/gwecs-global-offshore-wind-report-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://gwec.net/gwecs-global-offshore-wind-report-2023/</a>

With Xsens MTi-300

Using Motion Sensors to select the best sites for offshore wind farms

<html><head></head><body>Ships and military vessels face security risks at sea from external attacks and extreme weather conditions. External threats include piracy, illegal trade, human trafficking, terrorism and hazards caused by system failures.&nbsp;Vessels out at sea require maritime security to counter external and onboard threats. These threats might not always be malicious, but each risk to maritime security needs its own counter-defence strategy.<h2 dir="ltr">Security Risks</h2>Securing a ship for its journey at sea requires supervision and proactive safety measures to reduce security threats and protect those on board from accidents. Marine traffic across the ocean is vast, making it impossible to track all shipments. For this reason, safety officers and the whole crew need to be aware of vulnerabilities out at sea.&nbsp;Lack of awareness puts ships at risk of breaking laws in some territorial waters. It can also land the ship in dangerous locations, leading to severe financial losses and environmental hazards. In extreme cases, it can also lead to the loss of lives.&nbsp;The following are some of the main maritime threats faced by the shipping industry:<h3 dir="ltr">Piracy</h3>Pirates target vessels for financial or political reasons. According to the<a title="BBC Link" href="https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20231215-red-sea-cargo-ship-hijack-how-to-keep-merchant-vessels-safe-from-attack" target="_blank">&nbsp;BBC</a>, 2023 saw an increase in the number of attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea.Protecting against piracy requires supervisors and the crew to be aware of how pirates attack. For example, they tend to use small, fast boats to approach ships undetected. Employing security on board may also be necessary, especially if the ship is navigating a high-risk area like the Gulf of Aden. Captains should know the signs of piracy to watch for and reach out to coastguards to alert them of suspicious activity.<h3 dir="ltr">Trespassing And Terrorism</h3>Trespassing refers to the criminal act of breaching territorial waters to carry out illegal trade, illegal immigration and the smuggling of illegal goods. Criminals exploit the vastness of the oceans to find corridors to move illegal materials and plot attacks undetected.&nbsp;Criminal activity at sea affects the security of coastguards and impacts treaties between countries, disrupting transport routes. Criminals are always looking for new methods to exploit security, so international efforts to safeguard sea channels, ports and shorelines are ongoing.<h3 dir="ltr">Illegal Maritime Trade And Human Trafficking&nbsp;</h3>The breadth of international trade means it’s impossible to check all mass cargo shipments as they cross all waters. This leaves room for illegal activities to take place, including the trafficking of illegal arms, drugs, endangered animals and stolen artefacts.&nbsp;Human trafficking has far-reaching consequences, putting lives at risk and weakening international borders. Illegal trade and smuggling across borders is a constant challenge requiring the cooperation of nations to secure their territories.<h3 dir="ltr">Damage To The Environment&nbsp;</h3>Attacks on ships carrying hazardous materials can lead to substances like hazardous waste, oil and other toxic materials contaminating the ocean and killing wildlife.&nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">Security Strategies&nbsp;</h2>Maritime security strategies use preventative tactics to address threats at sea, focusing on early detection and coordinated efforts to secure the safety of shipments and crew members. These&nbsp;<a title="Security Strategies" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-maritime-security-strategy" target="_blank">security strategies</a> include the following:<h3 dir="ltr">Shipment Inspections&nbsp;</h3>Screening shipments for suspicious cargo can detect security breaches early on and ensure the crew abides by security practices.<h3 dir="ltr">Port Security</h3>Ensuring security measures are followed when the ship docks and leaves ports and transit terminals is critical in detecting terrorist threats and guarding supply chains.&nbsp;<h3 dir="ltr">Reporting On Security Incidents</h3>Reporting suspicious activity to coastguards aids authorities in investigating activity in a specific area. They can then put out warnings to other ships in the vicinity.<h3 dir="ltr">Efficient Security Training</h3>Security training ensures the crew knows what to look for and doesn’t overlook critical signs that they may be at risk. It means they’ll know how to maintain regular security practices and respond to emergencies. Security officers should also encourage crew members to remain vigilant when crossing certain regions of water to report suspicious boats in the area.<h3 dir="ltr">Maintaining Equipment</h3>Security equipment should be in proper working order for efficient performance. A compliance system and escalation matrix should be in place, which details essential security practices and procedures for crew members.<h3 dir="ltr">Handling Cargo</h3>Overseeing the handling of cargo when it’s loaded and unloaded from the ship is an essential security measure. This step is critical to ensure cargo has been properly inspected and accounted for.<h3 dir="ltr">Background Checks</h3>All crew members should undergo a background check to clear them for work aboard the ship. Crew handling precious cargo may need to undergo additional screening to ensure that security measures are upheld.<h3 dir="ltr">Supporting Crew</h3>Being out at sea for stretches of time, especially during hazardous weather, can take its toll on crew members. Supervisors should encourage trust and collaboration to make sure security is upheld, while allowing personnel to get adequate rest.<h2 dir="ltr">The Importance Of Maritime Security&nbsp;</h2>As the maritime industry grows, increasing international logistics, the threats facing vessels at sea have not changed. But they have become more sophisticated. Threats from piracy, terrorism, illegal trade or extreme weather are just some of the challenges faced by the&nbsp;<a title="Shipping Industry" href="https://www.rowse.co.uk/blog/post/what-is-a-digital-shipyard" target="_blank">shipping industry</a>. Countering these threats needs a vigilant approach to security and an awareness of geo-political developments to navigate waters securely.&nbsp;Security onboard is essential, from screening cargo to ensuring the crew is following security measures. However, onboard security is not enough to prevent all cases of illegal trade across the seas. For this reason, maritime security is an international effort requiring the coordination of information and patrols to identify threats before they escalate.</body></html>

Maritime security refers to the security measures taken to protect vessels crossing vast distances in the ocean – whether it’s securing cargo, military operations or transport. 

What Is Maritime Security?

The CES UVigo Association, made up of 25 engineering students from the University of Vigo, shared a common goal: to build a solar-powered trimaran for competition that runs exclusively on clean energy. Thanks to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ultimaker.com/3d-printers/s-series/">UltiMaker S5 3D printer</a>, they achieved their objective of creating a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation.<h2>The Challenge</h2>Building a solar trimaran with components that can withstand demanding environments.CES UVigo was founded in 2020 with the aim of competing in international regattas. This goal led to the need to construct a vessel for participation: the Boeiro I. With sponsorship from Sicnova, they adopted additive manufacturing as a key tool for creating the components required to build their solar trimaran.Before starting construction of the trimaran, the team created a model of the boat with all control and propulsion systems manufactured using 3D printing. For them, 3D printing is the most viable technique for producing parts with rapid adaptability that can endure highly demanding environments, such as the sea. Additive manufacturing also enabled them to work remotely, allowing them to coordinate schedules and bring the project to fruition.<blockquote><blockquote>Additive manufacturing is the most viable technique for building lightweight, fuel-efficient boats, as it offers numerous advantages to the marine sector.</blockquote>-Marcos Pardeiro, President of the CES UVigo Association</blockquote><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l44ds20vFlQ?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-26="true" id="91259150" title="Embarcaciones más ligeras y eficientes gracias a la impresión 3D | Caso de éxito CES UVigo"></iframe> <h2 id="isPasted">The Solution - UltiMaker S5 3D Printer</h2>With the integration of the UltiMaker S5 3D printer, the team began designing fully printed systems. Since then, they have developed a wide range of 3D printing applications, from tooling to a custom propeller for their boat. To produce the tooling for the solar battery and the boat's steering wheel, they used PETG filaments, known for their low electrical conductivity. For the safety covers at the edges of the solar panels, they used HIPS material, which is resistant to ultraviolet light and water. Another key benefit of 3D printing was the significant reduction in production time for these components compared to traditional manual manufacturing methods.<h2>The Result</h2>A lighter trimaran with reduced fuel consumption, built with 3D-printed components.With the help of 3D printing, CES UVigo successfully designed and built their solar-powered competition trimaran. The vessel is much lighter and consumes less fuel. Their commitment to creating a more sustainable mode of transportation was made possible thanks to additive manufacturing. This technology has allowed them to minimize production times, work with shorter deadlines, and adapt to changes more efficiently.<hr>Originally published on&nbsp;<a href="https://sicnova3d.com/blog/casos-de-exito/embarcaciones-ligeras-sector-naval-impresion-3d/">sicnova3d.com</a>

25 engineering students from the University of Vigo shared a common goal: to build a solar-powered trimaran for competition that runs exclusively on clean energy. Thanks to the UltiMaker S5 3D printer, they achieved their objective of creating a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

CES UVigo: Lighter and More Efficient Boats Thanks to 3D Printing

Oil & gas pipeline inspection conducted with underwater ROVs.

Maritime

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