Les saken på norsk What does it take to revolutionize autonomous maritime transport? Croatia and Norway are collaborating to unlock answers. Ocean Autonomy Cluster (OAC) recently welcomed a Croatian delegation to Norway as part of the Adriatic Green Autonomous Transport Initiative (AGATI). The visit, organized in collaboration with DIH InnovaMare and supported by EEA and Norway Grants, focused on fostering cooperation and innovation in autonomous maritime transport. The initiative builds on the partnership established through the MATIN project. The delegation, which included representatives from the Croatian Directorate for Maritime Safety, the Croatian Register of Shipping, the Port Authority of Rijeka, and DIH InnovaMare, gained valuable insights into Norway’s advanced maritime ecosystem. The program featured visits to several leading innovation hubs and maritime companies, showcasing Norway’s cutting-edge work in autonomy. Exploring Norway’s Innovation in Maritime Autonomy The delegation gained unique perspectives through visits to key players in autonomous technology and maritime innovation. At Torghatten’s electric ferry operating on the Rørvik–Flakk route, they learned about its electric propulsion system and plans for implementing autonomous technology. Presentation of electric propulsion and future plans for autonomy at Flakk-Rørvik. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster At SINTEF Ocean's Robotics Lab, Maritime Robotics, and Blueye Robotics, they were introduced to advanced autonomous systems designed for surface and underwater operations. The group also visited Zeabuz, a company revolutionizing urban mobility with autonomous ferries. A visit to NTNU’s Shore Control Lab provided insights into its research and development efforts focused on control systems for autonomous ships and fleets. The lab develops and tests technology for managing and monitoring autonomous vessels from land-based control centers, aiming to ensure efficient and safe operations across various maritime scenarios, including navigation, interaction with other vessels, and handling complex real-time situations. Petter Sjursen demonstrating ROV from Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Autonomous transport will skyrocket “The overarching goal of both the visit and the AGATI project is to advance autonomous maritime transport in the Adriatic,” said Mateo Ivanac from DIH InnovaMare. “To achieve this, progress is needed in research, technology development, legislation, and societal adaptation. Strong networks and collaboration are essential to succeed,” he explained. Ivanac also highlighted the importance of timing. “By 2025, autonomous transport will explode. Even if we’re not leading the development, we must actively contribute to shaping it,” he added. Darko Dominović, Croatian Ship Registry. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Darko Dominović from the Croatian Register of Shipping emphasized the challenges and opportunities for regulatory bodies. “Our role is to ensure the safe integration of new technology. This visit has been crucial for understanding how autonomy can benefit not just specialized vessels but also conventional ships for freight, passenger transport, and research,” Dominović said. A Bridge Between Research, Industry, and End Users Ocean Autonomy Cluster plays a pivotal role in developing future autonomous solutions, including unique test facilities such as Testination and the regulated Trondheim Fjord testing area for autonomous vessels. The cluster connects research, education, industry, and end users, driving the transition to a more autonomous future. Frode Halvorsen, head of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, addressed a common misconception about autonomy: “It’s important to clarify that autonomy doesn’t mean unmanned. Autonomy is used for navigation, maneuvering, collision avoidance, system monitoring, search and rescue, and enhanced situational awareness, even on crewed vessels,” Halvorsen explained. He also emphasized the cluster’s role in fostering innovation: “OAC serves as a bridge between research, industry, and end users. Our initiatives, such as Testination and Test Arena Trondheimsfjord, are critical in shaping the future of autonomous operations,” he said. This also applies to the FAST project, which aims to transport salmon autonomously, and the FlexFerry project, which seeks to create an autonomous and unmanned trailer to expand capacity in the existing ferry network. The MIDAS initiative (Humans in Future Ocean Operations) researches how humans and machines can collaborate in autonomous operations. Additionally, the cluster offers an incubator supporting innovation and growth for startups. “In close collaboration with other clusters, OAC is also part of the ESA BIC program,” Halvorsen added. The European Space Agency Business Incubation Centre (ESA BIC) is a program initiated by the European Space Agency to support startups that aim to use space technology, data, or expertise to develop innovative products and services on Earth. Levi Jamt, lead developer human machine teaming in Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Defense and Security as Key Drivers The defense and security sector is a crucial driver for developing autonomous technology, both militarily and civically. This includes areas such as surveillance, border control, environmental monitoring, combating illegal fishing, Arctic search and rescue, and solutions for humanitarian efforts, fishing, and agriculture. “Several of OAC’s member companies have experienced significant growth in this area over the past few years. Companies such as Skarv, Blueye Robotics, WaterLinked, and Maritime Robotics have gradually shifted their focus from aquaculture to providing solutions for the defense and security sector,” Halvorsen said. OAC is also involved in several groundbreaking projects. The SMART project is developing autonomous solutions for safe and efficient salmon transport, while the FlexFerry project focuses on creating an autonomous, unmanned trailer to increase capacity within existing ferry networks. Additionally, draft guidelines for the use of small uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) in Norway are underway, with a planned release in June. “With our broad approach and active collaboration, Ocean Autonomy Cluster is a catalyst for shaping the future maritime industry and bringing autonomous technology from vision to reality,” Halvorsen concluded. Ocean Autonomy Cluster also worcs in close cooperation with MIDSEC Defence and Security Cluster. Sondre Sandvik presenting innovative autonomy from Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Groundbreaking Regulatory Frameworks and Passionate Engagement Nils Haktor Bua from the Norwegian Maritime Authority also emphasized the importance of testing facilities. Test Arena Trondheimsfjord, the world’s first test area for autonomous ships. The opportunities here are crucial for integrating innovation into regulations, he said. Kay Endre Fjørtoft, senior researcher at SINTEF, highlighted collaboration as a key to success. Close connections between research environments, industry, and clusters like OAC are vital for developing and implementing autonomous technologies, says Fjørtoft. Many of the companies stem from research environments at NTNU. It’s not primarily a top-down plan, but the sum of the passionate engagement from many dedicated individuals that has driven our success in creating the unique expertise in maritime autonomy in Trondheim and at Nyhavna, says Associate Professor Morten Breivik from the Department of Engineering Cybernetics at NTNU. Researcher Erik Veitch and PhD Candidate Vedran Simic demonstrating NTNU's Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Enormous Potential for Collaboration The Croatian delegation also focused on the regulatory aspects of autonomy. Niko Hrdalo from the Croatian Ministry of Maritime Affairs shared his vision. We want to ensure that Croatian innovation environments and the industry keep pace with the global development of autonomous shipping. Norway's approach to administrative and technological challenges provides invaluable insights. Ivanac concluded by emphasizing the potential for collaboration. The potential for cooperation between Croatia and Norway is immense. Our shared commitment to autonomy can drive innovation and sustainability across the maritime sector, Hrdalo says. Niko Hrdalo, Croatian Ministry of Sea, Transport and Infrastructure. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Driving the Next Wave of Maritime Innovation The AGATI initiative highlights the importance of collaboration in navigating the challenges and opportunities within autonomous maritime transport. With Norway’s expertise and Croatia’s ambitious goals, this partnership is well-positioned to shape the future of global maritime autonomy. Want to learn more? AGATI – Adriatic Green Autonomous Transport Initiative Mateo Ivanac CEO Innovamare, Croatia Željka Rajković Chief Operating Officer, Innovamare Croatia Frode Halvorsen Cluster Manager at Ocean Autonomy Cluster, Norway Linda Hald Senior EU Advisor, Ocean Space, Norway Lars Bugge Aarset Communications advisor, Ocean Autonomy Cluster, Norway More pictures from the AGATI visit to Norway From Blueye Robotic's testlab at Nyhavna. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Petter Sjursen. Product Engineer in Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster A Blueye underwater drone lights up the harbor water at Nyhavna. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Zeljka Rajkovic, Chief Operating Officer DIH Innovamare and Darko Dominović, Senior Surveyor, Croatian Register of Shipping, visiting NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Erik Veitch, NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Battery room on Torghatten's electric ferry Flakk-Rørvik.Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Electric propulsion on Torghatten's ferry Flakk-Rørvik. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Electric ferry Flakk-Rørvik. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster
Les saken på norsk Ocean Access has initiated an exciting research project in Croatia, aiming to combine hyperspectral satellite data with in-depth measurements collected at various depths in the ocean. This integration seeks to provide new insights into critical marine phenomena, including algae blooms. The Trondheim-based technology company, Ocean Access, plans to deploy its research buoy in Norwegian and Croatian waters to continuously collect data from different depths. These in-situ measurements will complement hyperspectral satellite data, which only covers the surface layer. By effectively seeing beneath the surface, the project aims to create a more complete picture of the ocean environment — including deeper layers often not visible via satellite. “The collaboration arose after a trip to Croatia, organized by the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, where we connected with several relevant partners,” says Fredrik Lilleøkdal, CTO of Ocean Access. “Two companies, LIST LABS and BlueDataB, stood out as exciting partners in the satellite data field,” he adds. One of the Croatian partners, BluedataB, has significant experience with satellite-based remote monitoring and provides solutions for industries such as aquaculture. With Ocean Access’s technology, the project partners can now explore how continuous underwater monitoring can complement this remote sensing approach for more detailed data. Ocean Access develops submersible data buoys for collecting ocean data. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Efficient Four-Month Project Timeline Ocean Access CEO Andreas Mauritzen describes the project as a fast-paced collaboration, with a goal of delivering actionable results within just four months. “This project has the potential to make physical monitoring more cost-effective and scalable,” says Mauritzen. “We’re also exploring possibilities for expanding this cooperation both technically and commercially.” Part of MATIN Project Digital innovation HUB Innovamare and Ocean Autonomy Cluster (OAC) received funding from EEA grants to establish the Croatia – Norway Marine Technology Innovation network. Throughout the project, we have enabled companies from Croatia and Norway to collaborate on the development, testing, and validation of innovative marine technologies, with the aim of increasing joint investments in the blue economy, developing shared patents, and advancing applied research. This is a fantastic example of cluster effects; a cluster member that, through collaboration with a Croatian cluster, has established a cross-border partnership, says Frode Halvorsen of Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Ocean Access is a member of the FI Ocean Space Incubator and the Ocean Autonomy Cluster. About Ocean Access Founded in 2020 and based in Trondheim, Norway, Ocean Access develops submersible data buoys designed for comprehensive data collection in ocean environments. Their buoys operate both underwater and at the surface, equipped with a variety of sensors that enable detailed, continuous measurements. The system minimizes maintenance costs by protecting the buoy under the surface and can transmit collected data when it rises. The company operates out of Transittgata 14, Trondheim, and has ten employees. Do you like to know more? For more details about the project, please contact: Andreas Mauritzen, CEO and Co-Founder, andreas@oceanaccess.no, +47 942 57 323 Fredrik Lilleøkdal, CTO and Co-Founder, fredrik@oceanaccess.no, +47 988 41 415
Den norske ambassaden i Zagreb har tilgjengelig begrensede midler for å støtte norsk næringslivssatsing i Kroatia. Tilskudd skal bidra til at norsk næringsliv og kunnskapsmiljøer får større muligheter til å lykkes i Kroatia. Søknadsfrist: Løpende, med frist 4. oktober 2024. Klyngebedrifter kan ta kontakt med oss om de ønsker en koordinering for flere interesserte. Finn mer informasjon her Kontaktinfo EU-rådgiver Linda Hald linda@fi-nor.no Tlf. 976 74 134
Clean Sea Solutions, a leading Norwegian company specializing in innovative marine waste management, has found new business partners in Croatia. This collaboration began during a recent study trip organized by the Digital Innovation Hub Innovamare, where B2B meetings were the starting point for new partnerships between Croatian and Norwegian companies. This represents a significant step toward sustainable marine practices and highlights our commitment to protecting marine environment. -In this trip we met multiple Croatian companies and organizations working with the sea. This led to new partnerships and new buiness for us, Gulleik Olsen says. Gulleik Olsen, COO - Clean Sea Solutions He is COO in Clean Sea Solutions and has recently participated in the Norway - Croatia exchange study trip, arranged by Innovamare. - The role of Innovamare is important in fostering such valuable partnerships, says Gulleik Olsen. Networking events such as B2B meetings are among the many valuable services provided by the Digital Innovation Hub Innovamare and Ocean Autonomy Cluster. - Now we start seeing effects of the MATIN project, says Frode Halvorsen in Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Photo: Clean Sea Solutions
The Business Development and Innovation Programme in Croatia has launched an Open Call for bilateral cooperation in Green and Blue Sector. The Call will finance bilateral cooperation between at least one entity from Croatia and at least one entity from the Donor State (Norway) . Read more
Together with Digital innovation HUB Innovamare in Croatia, Ocean Autonomy Cluster (OAC) have established the Croatia Norway Marine Technology Innovation network - MATIN. In November the Croatians was visiting Norway. First step on the programme was notable companies in the Norwegian marine innovation landscape, including OceanTech Innovation AS, Ocean Access, Blueye Robotics, Zeabuz, and NTNU's Sea Control Lab. There was also time for a refreshing cruise with the autonomus ferry milliAmpere2. Throughout this project we will facilitate collaborations between companies in Croatia and Norway, particularly in the development, testing, and validation of ocean technologies. Our goals include increasing joint investments in the blue economy, fostering common patents, and advancing applied research. This visit allows both teams to explore collaborative possibilities and learn from each other's experiences. Exciting developments in Vanvikan with AutoAgri, a company at the forefront of designing and manufacturing autonomous tractors. These vehicles are tailored for agriculture, and the potential applications are only limited by our imagination. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset As part of the Croatia Norway Marine Technology Innovation Network - MATIN, a group of enthusiastic Croatians has visited the technology hub in Vanvikan. MATIN was established by the Digital innovation HUB Innovamare Croatia in collaboration with the Ocean Autonomy Cluster in Trøndelag. The first step of a larger partnership MATIN will strengthen the collaboration between ocean tech companies in Norway and Croatia, says Frode Halvorsen from Ocean Autonomy Cluster. This is the first step in what we hope will be a larger and longer partnership between Ocean Autonomy Cluster and Innovamare. So, in the current phase, we are looking into companies from both countries that have shown interest in collaboration and to create common projects, says Halvorsen. Adriana Paric, Jan Laszowski and Davor Vranković from the Croatian delegation visiting Maritime Robotics in Vanvikan. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. Exploring collaborative possibilities The purpose of MATIN project is to enable companies from Croatia and Norway to cooperate and work on the development, testing, and validation of innovative marine technologies with the goal of increasing joint investments in the blue economy, developing common patents, and applied research, says Jan Laszowski. He is the project coordinator for Digital Innovation Hub Innovamare in Croatia. The purpose of the visit to Norway was for Croatian partners to visit Norwegian partners and to start exploring collaborative possibilities and learn from each other. The outcome of this visit was that the partners that were brought from Croatia got insight of different projects that Norwegian partners are working on, and trough one-on-one meetings with them (B2B) they were able to exchange more detailed information on their own individual work, as well as talk about possible cooperation on existing or future projects. The next step is to do the same with Norwegian partners in Croatia, where they will be able to meet new potential partners in cooperative projects from different sectors, Laszowski says. Innovamare and companies from Croatia have been visiting Trondheim, and companies have allready made connections. In April, Norwegian companies will go to Croatia, where they will look into concrete projects where their tecnology can provide solutions, Halvorsen says. Frode Halvorsen and Josip Sanković together with Trond Hansen from Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset From the production of autonomus wessels at Maritime Robotics in Vanvikan. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. The Otter Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) is an easily deployable turn-key system for seabed mapping and monitoring of sheltered waters. Here at Maritime Robotics development and production site in Vanvikan. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset There was also time for a refreshing cruise with the autonomus ferry milliAmpere2 across the channel in Trondheim. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset.Students from the drone class at Johan Bojer secondary school. This is one of only a few schools in Norway which offers drone pilot training. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. Mateo Ivanac is Chief Executive Officer for Digital innovation HUB Innovamare. Here from the visit at Maritime Robotics in Vanvikan. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. Demonstration and testing of underwater drone from Blueye Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. Demonstration of the submersible ocean data buoy by Simen Helgesen from Ocean Access. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. Andrijana Paric, Project manager at Digital Innovation Hub Innovamare visiting Autoagri in Vanvikan. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset. Maritime Robotics developes multi-purpose unmanned vehicles for offshore and coastal applications. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset