Technology Innovation Unit
Basic Policy on Technological Innovation
Technological development in the marine industry has conventionally focused on underlying technologies for ship equipment and machinery. In recent years, on the back of advances in ocean broadband telecommunication, the potential has expanded further due to rapid developments in information and communications technology (ICT) such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data.
Centered on the ISHIN NEXT-MOL SMART SHIP PROJECT, which commenced in November 2016, we have developed technologies under the concepts of ensuring safe operation and further reducing our environmental impact. In addition, we established a new "theme to be realized" in group technological development when we established the Technology Innovation Unit in 2018.
Based on these actions, we are proceeding with technological development to realize the strategies, "Providing "stress-free services" that are truly convenient for customers" and "Developing environment and emission-free business into core businesses," as stated in our management plan, and aim to promote a sustainable society and improve the group's corporate value by addressing the needs and concerns of stakeholders including customers.
Technological Development Concept
Our Goals
| (1) Eliminate human error and achieve safe operation by leveraging automated technologies | Autonomous Sailing |
|---|---|
| (2) Develop eco-ships using natural energy | Wind Challenger Project |
| (3) Develop vessels using alternative fuels that help reduce CO2 emissions | LNG-Fueled Vessels |
| (4) Expand the installation of equipment for collecting vessels' operational data and create next-generation types of ship management support systems | FOCUS Project |
| (5) Provide technological solutions for issues related to logistics services | |
MOL Press Releases
Structure for Accelerating Technological Innovation
The MOL Group established the Technology Innovation Unit in April 2018 with the goal of stepping up our efforts in technological development. The unit comprises three organizations: the Technical Division, which is in charge of managing and developing technologies from the vessel hardware aspect; the Smart Shipping Division, which is in charge of marine-related ICT; and MOL Information Systems, Ltd., a group company responsible for providing group-wide IT support. These three organizations collaborate to promote the development of next-generation technologies. Additionally, in the ISHIN NEXT-MOL SMART SHIP PROJECT, the Technological Innovation Unit actively pursues inter-industry collaboration with outside parties, including the Wind Challenger Project.
Technological Development Platform
Examples of Technological Development through Co-Creation with External Institutions
- Forecast for dry bulker movement
- Market estimations for dry bulks
- MOL Light House
- Wind Challenger Project
- FOCUS Project
- Autonomous sailing
- Cameras to monitor loading and unloading operation
- Support systems for Northern Sea Route sailing
- Support software for VLCC's loading and unloading operation