Singapore and the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) have launched the Joint IHO-Singapore Innovation and Technology Laboratory.
The Laboratory aims to optimise the resources of IHO Member States to harness and develop emerging technologies in the hydrographic domain that support safe maritime navigation and the protection of the marine environment.
In accelerating innovation in the field of hydrography, the Laboratory specifically aims to:
- Conduct research and testing of projects proposed by IHO Member States, IHO organs and other stakeholders;
- Grow knowledge and foster collaboration on global standard-setting for the development and application of technologies enhancing safety at sea;
- Promote a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment to drive innovative solutions and develop pioneering technologies through active partnerships.
For a start, the Joint IHO-Singapore Innovation and Technology Laboratory will embark on the following two pilot projects:
- Investigate the automated conversion of the IHO S-57 Electronic Navigation Chart (ENC) to the IHO S-101 ENC. This project supports the development of the Dual-Fuel Electronic Chart Display and Information System.
- Develop a digital Infrastructure to improve information exchange between harbours and hydrographic office. The outcome of this project will inform the IHO S-131 Marine Harbour Infrastructure product specifications.
Commenting on the launch of the laboratory, IHO Secretary General, Dr Mathias Jonas, said that:
The Joint IHO-Singapore Innovation and Technology Laboratory will provide a dedicated space to test and evaluate new ideas to enable their smooth transfer into practice. This is a key element which has been missing and will help progress in digital hydrography
