Collaborative Research on Underwater Drone Implementation with Space One and Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology

Innovative Partnership for Underwater Drone Development

In an exciting move towards technological advancement, Space One, based in Koriyama, Fukushima, and the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, located in Minato, Tokyo, have entered into a collaborative research contract. This partnership focuses on the theme of implementing underwater and surface drones within society.

Background to the Research

The development of underwater drone technology has garnered significant attention in recent years, yet challenges in real-world application and workforce training remain prevalent. The research project aims to overcome these hurdles by harnessing AI technologies to establish operational methodologies and develop effective training methods for technical personnel. The ultimate goal is to achieve sustainable social implementation of underwater drones.

Underwater drones hold promise across various sectors, including infrastructure inspection, marine surveys, fisheries support, and disaster response. However, the ubiquity of this technology is hindered by a shortage of skilled technicians and a lack of operational know-how. This research initiative will tackle these issues by developing educational curriculums and operational guidelines tailored to real-world applications.

Expanding the Scope to Surface Drones

In addition to focusing on underwater drones, the study will also consider surface drones. This supplementary focus aims to explore synergies between underwater and surface technologies, ensuring a comprehensive approach to future advancements.

Expertise in Marine Technology

The collaboration between Space One and the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology seeks to integrate the extensive experience of Space One with the advanced knowledge of the university. Together, they aim to build a robust foundation for next-generation marine technology and workforce development, ultimately establishing a Japanese model for underwater drone utilization.

About Space One

Space One is dedicated to a full-service operation concerning underwater drones, which includes sales, implementation support, operational assistance, and human resource development. Leveraging cutting-edge underwater robotics technologies both domestically and abroad, the company promotes the social implementation of underwater drones across various fields such as infrastructure inspection, environmental surveys, and fisheries support. The company has earned the trust of a diverse clientele, including private corporations, government agencies, and educational institutions, due to its strong operational know-how and comprehensive support systems.

Visit Space One’s Official Site

About Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology

Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology is the only national university in Japan dedicated to marine studies. The university offers a wide range of education and research in marine sciences, with the Faculty of Marine Engineering focusing on cutting-edge research and training in marine technology. They are highly active in social implementation through industry-academia collaboration, especially in the research and development of underwater robots, surface mobility, and next-generation marine devices that utilize AI and IoT technologies.

Visit Tokyo University’s Official Site

This partnership between Space One and the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology marks a significant step forward in addressing the challenges of underwater drone implementation, paving the way for innovative solutions in maritime technology.