App-based draught survey technology receives funding

Tymor Marine has secured funding from Scottish Enterprise to advance the development of a mobile application version of its groundbreaking draught survey technology.

The DRFT MRKS software, already a significant innovation in the maritime industry, employs artificial intelligence and deep learning techniques on video footage to provide precise measurements of a vessel’s weight and cargo load.

The technology also has applications and value for port authorities, environmental agencies and local authorities as it can be used to monitor tides, reservoir and river levels.

Accurate draught readings are crucial for ensuring a vessel’s stability, determining its cargo capacity and assessing safe navigation depths.

The grant from Scottish Enterprise will enable Tymor Marine to enhance the operational capabilities of the DRFT MRKS software, transforming it into a highly portable and commercially viable mobile app that doesn’t rely on cloud-based processing.

Traditionally, draught surveys, used to ascertain a vessel’s weight and cargo load, have been conducted visually, but factors like environmental conditions and human error often introduce inaccuracies.

Even a minor error in draught readings can lead to legal disputes over apparent cargo shortages, highlighting the importance of precision in this process.

Moreover, conducting draught surveys poses risks to the safety of mariners, as it involves close

proximity to the vessel’s hull or underside in often challenging conditions. Initially developed to address these challenges for Tymor Marine’s naval services team, the DRFT MRKS software was further refined with support from Scotland’s innovation hub, CENSIS, and the University of Edinburgh.

Through cutting-edge AI technology, DRFT MRKS overcomes human error and environmental obstacles such as faded markings, poor lighting,

marine growth and adverse weather conditions.

Videocapturecanbeconducted from a safer distance using handheld devices or drones.

The potential for an app version of the software is vast. Kevin Moran, managing director of Tymor Marine, envisions significant industry impact.

He said: “The digitalisation of maritime operations over the next two decades will drive more change than we’ve seen in a century. Disruptive innovations

like DRFT MRKS will revolutionise the maritime experience, enhancing safety and efficiency at sea.”

Moran expressed gratitude for the funding from Scottish Enterprise, emphasising its role in refining the software for smartphone integration.

He anticipates accelerated time-to-market for a technology that prioritises scalability, security, reliability and portability.

DRFT MRKS is a significant innovation for the maritime industry.