Unrivalled hands-on demo opportunities at Ocean Business 2023
With less than three months until Ocean Business 2023, more details can be revealed about the Training and Demonstration programme, one of the main attractions of the global technology and science exhibition for marine industries.
The three-day show, which runs from April 18-20 at the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton, is open to all visitors for free by registering online at www.oceanbusiness.com.
This year’s Training and Demonstration programme marks a year of exciting progress and development in the ocean environment.
Visitors will have the opportunity to observe cutting edge technology close up and meet the top innovators in the sector, with 130-plus hours of demonstrations on the dockside, on board vessels, in the test tank, and in the classroom.
A major draw will be the latest in autonomous vehicles, with a number of ROVs, USVs and AUVs in action, from Singapore, the US, Norway, Spain, Ireland and the UK.
Highlights include first time OB exhibitor Aquatic Drones, demonstrating how cost efficient its zero emission Autonomous Surface Vessel (ASV) is for surveys focusing on inland waterways, hydro dams, ports, coastlines and offshore wind projects.
Advances in AUV technology will be the focus of Singapore’s BeeX, with a vehicle that can autonomously inspect platform structures using a positioning system from UK company Sonardyne.
And EvoLogics will demonstrate excellence in underwater search and reconnaissance, deploying a combination of USVs, AUVs, sensor stations, object recognition technology, and underwater data and positioning networks.
Meanwhile, on board Callista, the National Oceanography Centre’s purpose-built research vessel, Chelsea Technologies will present its next generation instrumentation, LabSTAF, to measure phytoplankton primary productivity.
Also on the dockside - which will be fitted with a 33m floating pontoon to accommodate the mobilisation of autonomous vehicles - Maritime Robotics will stage demonstrations of its fleet of Otter Pros, with both the Norbit and Kongsberg multibeam systems, the ultimate in unmanned survey platforms.
Test tank and classroom training and demonstration sessions will cover everything from Teledyne’s marine interconnect technology advancements to EdgeTech’s 3D sub-seabed imaging sonar, eBOSS.
Ocean Business 2023 provides unrivalled access to today’s transformational ocean technology - from the most sophisticated collision avoidance systems, to sustainable environmental monitoring, to breakthroughs in robotic and lean crewed fleets.
With more than 300 manufacturers and service providers already booked for the sold-out exhibition, this year’s event promises to attract record crowds from around the world, offering unbeatable networking opportunities.
Terry Sloane, Managing Director of Planet Ocean and ecoSUB Robotics, said: ‘Planet Ocean and ecoSUB love being at Ocean Business. As one of the original companies involved in the stakeholder discussions when Ocean Business was just an idea, we are delighted that it has become a ‘must attend’ on the international ocean show calendar.
‘As a company that partners with more than 20 overseas manufacturers, it’s a great opportunity to connect with them without burning huge amounts of carbon, as well as meeting with our customers, old, new and future. When you add in the training and demonstration opportunities, Ocean Business clearly comes out top.’
Cheri Arvonio, Event Director at show organiser Diversified Communications, said: ‘Our Training and Demonstration programme this year is packed with innovation and ideas to future-proof your business.
‘We’re expecting some exciting product launches and can’t wait to welcome a line-up of sector leading ocean people, sharing their wealth of scientific, technological and engineering expertise.’
All training and demonstration sessions are free to attend and visitors can book in on a first come first served basis at the show, or in advance by contacting the company hosting the session.
To see the full Training and Demonstration programme, please visit: www.oceanbusiness.com.
Nominations now open for SMI Marine Science and Technology Business Person of the Year Award
Nominations are now open for the SMI Marine Science and Technology Business Person of the Year Award. The Business Person of the Year Award recognises individuals who demonstrate outstanding entrepreneurial spirit, strategic business thinking and are regarded as leaders in their field. This award also acknowledges and celebrates the personal and generous contributions by a business person and the difference their involvement makes to the Marine Science & Technology (MST) community overall. Individuals entering into this category can be self-employed or employed by a business.
The award will be handed out at Ocean Business 2023 in Southampton in April.
In order to nominate someone, please fill in this form.
Miros Mocean appoints Andreas Brekke as new CEO
Miros Mocean has appointed Andreas Brekke as CEO to drive its growth in the global shipping market.
Launched in 2021, Miros Mocean is a joint venture between wave technology expert Miros, BW Group, one of the world’s leading maritime companies, and Copenhagen Commercial Platform (CCP), an independent commercial platform with a specific focus on ESG for shipowners.
Miros Mocean is a future-facing platform, that integrates real-time vessel data and normalises it from local wave and weather parameters, this provides an unprecedented accuracy in vessel performance and thereby enables optimal performance and decarbonisation.
With more than 20 years’ experience across the energy sector, Mr Brekke’s appointment follows nearly a decade as CEO of Miros Group. During his tenure, the company increased its position in the offshore operations and energy markets, with contracts secured with key industry players around the world.
Based in the company’s headquarters in Asker, Norway, Mr Brekke will drive Miros Mocean’s mission to support the shipping industry with measured – not derived – local environmental data, for a precise overview of vessel performance in real-time, giving clear proof of efficiency and commercial viability throughout the lifetime of a vessel.
Mr Brekke said: “I am very proud to be continuing my journey within the Miros team as the CEO of Miros Mocean. After nearly a decade in my previous role as Miros Group CEO, I am honoured to have the chance to help the company explore specific solutions tailored to the shipping market.
Christian Bonfils, CCP CEO and Chairman of Miros Mocean added: “I have full confidence that Andreas Brekke will leverage his experience and knowledge of the industry in his new role, to further establish Miros Mocean as a leader in next-generation vessel performance."
Miros Mocean’s vision is to give the shipping industry accurate and relevant performance data to optimise costs and create a transparent, collaborative, and greener shipping industry for the future.
OceanTools Ltd announce collaboration agreement with TMI-Orion Dynamics
OceanTools Ltd, Aberdeen Scotland, announce the signing of a Collaboration Agreement with TMI-Orion Dynamics, headquartered in Montpellier France, for OceanTools to sell their EMA-5 Electric Manipulator Arm. Furthermore, OceanTools will assist with the manufacture of the arm in their state-of-the-art CNC machine shop and electronics workshops.
The EMA 5 is a high-performance, rugged, compact, and reliable multi-function electric manipulator arm designed for underwater operation on observation class ROVs. The EMA 5 electric manipulator arm, developed by TMI Orion Dynamics is a five-function manipulator module offering slew, elevation, elbow bend, jaw rotation, and jaw open/close. The compact design has an embedded electronic controller, with no additional pod required. Monitoring software is available for remote operation, or a TMI Orion Surface Control Unit can be ordered separately. The EMA 5 can be controlled with a gamepad. Cartesian mode is available, with set positions. Applications include underwater precision manipulation, scientific and environmental sample collection and subaquatic tooling and grabbing.
Jean-Marie Vachette, Subsea Robotics Sales Manager for TMI-Orion Dynamics commented “ We are pleased with this collaboration with OceanTools, a company known for its expertise in the world of offshore and underwater robotics, but also to have found a very professional partner with whom to collaborate on topics such as manufacturing, assembly and testing.
Kevin Parker, Managing Director of OceanTools added, "We are absolutely thrilled and delighted to be working with TMI-Orion Dynamics. The EMA-5 is a well-proven rugged and dependable manipulator for which we see tremendous potential. We’re very well positioned to not just sell the arms but also to machine much of the arm as well as offering a great service and support facility. We will also be adding EMA-5 arms to our equipment rental pool."
The EMA5 Electric Manipulator, which will be marketed as the EM5 to fit in with OceanTools product naming protocol, is the latest addition to OceanTools’ extensive range of pioneering underwater technology, including tools and market-leading subsea cameras, lighting, and dye detection systems.
Dr Bernhard Bruggaier appointed as Group Chief Executive of Acteon Group Ltd
The Board of Directors of Acteon Group Ltd, a global provider of services to the renewable, infrastructure and oil and gas industries, has appointed Dr Bernhard Bruggaier as Group Chief Executive, succeeding Dr Carl Trowell.
Bernhard joined Acteon’s subsidiary MENCK in 1994, became its Managing Director in 1998 and joined Acteon’s executive management team following the acquisition of MENCK in 2003. After that, Bernhard served in various senior strategic and operational management roles before being appointed Chief Operating Officer in 2018 and joining Acteon’s Board of Directors in 2021.
Commenting on the transition, Chairman of the Board, Juan de Ochoa, said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Carl for his significant contribution as Group Chief Executive and wish him all the very best for the future. As the business moves into a new phase of growth, we are delighted that Bernhard has agreed to transition into the role. We are confident that he will lead the company and our people with the passion and strategic vision he has shown in serving the business for so many years. We look forward to working closely with Bernhard as he continues leveraging the company’s innovative technology, engineering capability and operational strength to pursue sustainable growth.”
Dr Bernhard Bruggaier commented “I joined Acteon when it was a small company. I have enjoyed our journey to the dynamic, increasingly renewables-focused international organisation that Acteon is now. I am honoured to be asked to lead the team that forms Acteon today and which comprises first-class, highly dedicated individuals in all functions of the organisation, some of whom I have worked with for years. Together, we will shape the future of Acteon through developing our legacy energy markets as much as focusing on the necessary energy transition that we have already been driving for over 20 years.”
Tom Chant, Chief Executive of the Society of Maritime Industries, awarded MBE
SMI are delighted to be welcoming in the New Year with some fantastic news. Tom Chant, Chief Executive of the Society of Maritime Industries, has received an MBE in King Charles III first New Year Honours list for his services to the maritime industry.
Tom said: “I am of course delighted to have been awarded this honour. It really is an achievement for all the team at SMI as I certainly don’t do it all myself! This gives us a great mandate to continue the work we are doing and do even more in 2023 and beyond.”
Job Advert: Reach Robotics hiring Technical Sales Representative
Job Summary
Based in the UK, this Sales Engineer position will be the company's lead for sales activities in the UK and Europe. You will be involved in the sales process from lead generation to after sales support which requires good organization and communication skills throughout. Core to the role is developing key relationships, understanding client problems, and clearly communicating the company's value proposition.
The ideal candidates for the role are high-energy, self-motivated, agile team players who can quickly identify and apply effort to the right opportunities.
Your Region
You will be responsible for actively driving sales in the UK, Scandinavia, and the Netherlands and potentially other locations in Europe. You will work with others in the sales team to provide sales support and develop the situation.
Requirements
Your Role and Responsibility
1. Develop a clear understanding of the company's existing client base in the region, building relationships with these clients and understanding their use cases for our technology.
2. Develop and execute a strategy for market approach in your region, identifying the high value target accounts, and generating interest and sales opportunities
3. Develop new business via phone, in-person visits and demonstrations, and email, with a "relationship-first" mindset
4. Nurture and grow existing accounts through proactive activities
5. Conduct initial qualification and discover prospect's current environment, pain points, and potential projects
6. Provide first-stage technical responsiveness and liaise with client and the support engineer to resolve technical support tickets and RMAs
7. Communicate regularly with the Commercial Director and headquarters staff to enable continuity of relationships and delivery on sales
8. Use the company's CRM to properly track all sales activities and manage data for accuracy
9. Other duties as assigned
Who you are (desirables)
1. You ideally have a background in the offshore energy sector, Defence, or another key sector of ours
2. You have a technical background (ideally an engineering degree)
3. You have experience in sales and/or business development
4. You have the 'knack' for building strong client relationships
5. You have excellent written and oral communication skills
6. You have effective problem solving, time management, and organizational skills
7. You are proficient in MS Office products
8. You have experience with CRM Software
HOW TO APPLY - STRICT - ATTENTION TO DETAIL MATTERS!
Please submit:
A short cover letter that addresses:
Why your experience will bring value to the company as we seek to grow sales in the UK and Europe
What excites you about working for Reach Robotics
A short CV (two pages max) outlining your relevant experience
Benefits
Why work with Reach Robotics?
1. Be part of a fast-growing hardware robotics company
2. Take on a role with huge career progression potential and a clear development plan
3. Located within a larger corporate team with partner subsidiaries including Nortek, Tritech, and SRS.
4. Autonomy and empowerment to reach your sales goals
5. Regular travel in the UK and Europe including to networking events and tradeshows
6. Attractive Commission
Hydromea is leading the development of the global wireless optical communication standard
Hydromea is leading the development of the global underwater wireless optical communication standard for bandwidths up to 10Mbps within the Subsea Wireless Group (SWiG), of which Hydromea has been a member since 2019. The Subsea Wireless Group (SWiG) is an international industry network of manufacturers and users of subsea wireless communication equipment (radio frequency, acoustic, free-space optic, inductive power, hybrid) and it promotes their interoperability.
Hydromea is an emerging leader in the field of wireless optical communication systems that can send data through water at speeds of up to 10Mbps using dispersed LED light. This assures wide-angle communication coverage as opposed to laser systems that require fine alignment. Hydromea’s technology enables wireless, high-speed, low-latency communication between two or more communication nodes at depths down to 6’000 meters. Currently, there is no industry standard, which makes the deployment of such systems less attractive for the end users.
Felix Schill, co-founder and CTO of Hydromea, said: “We are very proud that our work on underwater wireless technology earned us a prominent place within the Subsea Wireless Group and that the industry players have entrusted us with leading the development of the standard.”
Chevron, Equinor, and TotalEnergies became members of SWiG to drive interoperability of underwater wireless technologies in the energy sector. They welcome initiatives that take a lead on development of industry standards. This will positively affect the adoption of underwater wireless technology by the industry.
Shreekant Mehta, SWiG project manager, added: “Hydromea have been a key party in the development of SWiG standards. In co-operation with an operator, they are drafting an open standard that will facilitate interoperable 1-10mbps FSO (free-space optical) communications for the industry. This standard will be donated to SWiG for review and will significantly accelerate the SWiG timeline. End users will be able to deploy high speed FSO technology that adheres to a SWiG standard. Standardisation initiatives require collaboration and cooperation between vendor competitors. We are lucky in SWiG to have a high level of cooperation between vendors. Hydromea are a great example of this collaborative spirit.”
Founded in 2014, Hydromea is a Swiss-based autonomous underwater robotics company delivering solutions that allow customers to have unparalleled access to subsea data and underwater assets. Ultra-fast and high-volume, real-time data transfer brings a paradigm shift in our quest to explore the ocean and understand its impact on the subsea economy.
General Oceans appoints Omer Poroy as Chief Executive Officer of Strategic Robotic Systems
General Oceans is pleased to announce the appointment of Omer Poroy as Chief Executive Officer of Strategic Robotic Systems, Inc.; one of its four operating companies. Mr. Poroy brings with him over 25 years of experience in the ocean technology space with expertise in sensors, robotics, autonomy, and the interplay of multidomain maritime systems.
“We are excited to have Omer join the group in this leadership capacity,” said Atle Lohrmann, President of General Oceans, adding “his diverse set of experiences in companies ranging from startup to Fortune 100 constitute the perfect fit for our growth plans across the commercial, scientific, and defense sectors within the Blue Economy.”
Jesse Rodocker, founder of Strategic Robotic Systems added, “Omer’s addition to our leadership team enhances our ability to scale this business and diversify into new application areas; we’re happy to welcome him on board as we enter our next stage of growth.”
During his tenure at General Dynamics Mission Systems, Mr. Poroy led enterprise-level strategy and business development initiatives through various campaigns encompassing Undersea Warfare, Maritime Autonomy and Distributed Maritime Operations. Prior to General Dynamics, Mr. Poroy held various leadership positions at Bluefin Robotics and Teledyne Technologies.
“I am thrilled to be joining such an innovative team in the underwater robotics space,” said Omer Poroy. “I look forward to engaging with the broader ocean community to uncover additional uses for this technology and continuing our tradition of introducing groundbreaking capabilities to meet the evolving requirements of our customers.”
Mr. Poroy received his MBA from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sloan School of Management, and holds Ocean Engineering degrees from Florida Institute of Technology.
Exail’s DriX Unmanned Surface Vehicle takes part in Digital Horizon 22 military exercise organized by US Navy in Bahrain
Exail, formerly iXblue, recently took part in the Digital Horizon Unmanned & Artificial Intelligence Exercise in Bahrain, organized by the US Navy. The U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet held the three-week exercise in December to test new unmanned technologies, as part of its plans to establish the world’s first Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) fleet of one hundred drones in the Gulf by the end of the summer.
The current geopolitical situation means that manned assets are in increasing demand elsewhere, leading the Navy to look to the latest unmanned technologies to expand its capabilities. Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces, set up Task Force 59 last year to speed new tech integration across the 5th Fleet, and seek alternative, cost-effective solutions for conducting Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) missions. Maritime Domain Awareness can be defined as the effective understanding of military and non-military events in the maritime environment that could impact the security, safety, economy, or environment of a nation or a region.
Exail’s DriX USV was among the fifteen USVs and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) selected to participate in the exercise, which staged a Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) mission. The USVs and UAVs were tasked with gathering data on the surface in order to detect and identify potential threats. One of the main requirements was for the drones to communicate with each other using a common OPS system. The complementarity aspect of the different drones was also important, as the 5th Fleet aims to leverage the different capacities of each drone to cover a wide array of competencies in order to produce a Common Operating Picture of what is occurring in a specific zone of water.
With its highly hydrodynamic monohull and drop keel, DriX showed high reliability with excellent seakeeping and speed results, accomplishing its mission of gathering data on the surface and proving its capacity to successfully integrate third party radar and cameras. The ability of DriX to integrate within a military communications network was successfully proven, thanks to its wide range of communication means (including Certus, 4G, Wifi and Silvus). The USV further meets requirements in terms of communications redundancy, crucial for minimizing risk during military operations, and is fitted with an advanced collision avoidance system that ensures robust and safe autonomous navigation at sea.
Guillaume Eudeline, Exail’s Naval Autonomy Market Director said:
“We’re very happy about the feedback from the TF59 on DriX’s performance. We’d like to thank the US Navy 5th Fleet for their support throughout the exercise and in particular Capt. Michael Brasseur and his staff. For the first time DriX integrated a multiple-unmanned collaborative military organization, alongside some of the industry’s best. It was a real success and we are proud to have collaborated in this group effort, which showed what unmanned technologies can bring to MDA.”