Condition Monitoring Technologies (CMT) has expressed caution regarding the exclusive reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) for ship condition monitoring. The company emphasizes the necessity of human expertise to ensure safety and accuracy in maritime operations, particularly as the shipping industry increasingly incorporates AI-driven solutions for machinery diagnostics. CMT recognizes the impressive capability of AI to process large amounts of data and assist in condition monitoring.
However, they stress that human engineers must remain involved to validate and interpret technical data, especially as vessels become more automated and complex. According to CMT’s Managing Director David Fuhlbrügge, “AI has a role to play, but there are critical limitations in relying on technology alone.” Sensors can provide essential data, but they cannot detect issues such as unusual sounds or excessive vibrations that experienced engineers can identify through their intuition and judgment. Currently, CMT does not incorporate AI in its monitoring devices; rather, it uses advanced algorithms for data interpretation.
The company envisions a future where AI can remotely flag potential issues, yet these alerts would still require expert human assessment. They foresee a hybrid model of continuous monitoring during voyages, with mobile maintenance teams dispatched to address problems at ports. Fuhlbrügge notes that such systems would resemble today’s engine manufacturer service models, where sensors might identify faults during a voyage requiring on-site expertise for accurate interpretation to prevent false alarms or missed issues.
Additionally, the technical and financial challenges of equipping ships with reliable sensors underscore the complexity of AI integration. The company believes that AI should enhance, rather than replace, the capabilities of engineers by fostering collaboration between human insight and machine efficiency. CMT highlights the need for a balanced approach to technology adoption, reminding stakeholders that human engineers are essential to maintaining a safe and reliable maritime future.