Methodology and Challenges of Implementing Advanced Technological Solutions in Small and Medium Shipyards: The Case Study of the Mari4_YARD Project

• DOI: 10.3390/electronics14081597
• Publication Date: 2025-04-15T10:50:27Z
• Authors: Lorenzo Grazi; Abel Feijoo Alonso; Adam Gąsiorek; Afra Maria Pertus...; Alejandro Grajeda; Alexandros Kanakis; Ana Rodriguez Vidal; Andrea Parri; Felix Vidal; Ioannis Ergas; Ivana Zeljkovic; Javier Pamies Durá; Javier Perez Mein; Konstantinos Kats...; Luís F. Rocha; Lorena Núñez Rodr...; Marcelo R. Petry; Michal Neufeld; Nikos Dimitropoulos; Nina Köster; Ratko Mimica; Sara Varão Fernandes; Simona Crea; Sotiris Makris; Stavros Giartzas; Vincent Settler; Jawad Masood

Small to medium-sized shipyards play a crucial role in the European naval industry. However, the globalization of technology has increased competition, posing significant challenges to shipyards, particularly in domestic markets for short sea, work, and inland vessels. Many shipyard operations still rely on manual, labor-intensive tasks performed by highly skilled operators. In response, the adoption of new tools is essential to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. This paper presents a methodology for developing a human-centric portfolio of advanced technologies tailored for shipyard environments, covering processes such as shipbuilding, retrofitting, outfitting, and maintenance. The proposed technological solutions, which have achieved high technology readiness levels, include 3D modeling and digitalization, robotics, augmented and virtual reality, and occupational exoskeletons. Key findings from real-scale demonstrations are discussed, along with major development and implementation challenges. Finally, best practices and recommendations are provided to support both technology developers seeking fully tested tools and end users aiming for seamless adoption.