The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has signed a memorandum of understanding with U.S.-based robotics firm Persona AI to explore the deployment of humanoid robots in shipyard operations.
The collaboration will focus on developing inspection technologies and collecting robotic data during ship construction. Unlike traditional industrial robots, Persona AI’s humanoid platform—partly based on NASA’s robotic hand technology—is designed to work in spaces built for humans, offering greater mobility and flexibility in confined or ergonomically challenging environments.
ABS said the partnership will support the creation of new standards defining the types and quality of data required for digital and remote surveys. These standards could guide future robot design and establish methods for applying robotic data in certification and compliance processes.
ABS emphasized the potential to enhance productivity and safety while setting reliable protocols for integrating advanced robotics into the maritime sector.
Persona AI is already piloting initiatives in cooperation with South Korea’s HD Hyundai. In May, the company also signed an MoU with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), HD Hyundai Robotics, and Vazil Company to jointly develop humanoid robots capable of complex welding tasks in shipyards.
Photo: ABC
