Innovation in Our Shipyards

As stewards of progress, we recognize that humanity’s greatest strength lies in our capacity for positive change. In an ever-evolving world fueled by continuous innovation, it is both our privilege and duty as leaders in shipbuilding to seek maritime solutions that benefit our employees, our customers, and the planet.

The digital revolution, which includes cutting-edge artificial intelligence and robotics, is an area of critical importance for Fincantieri. At our three Wisconsin-based shipyards—Fincantieri Marinette Marine, Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding, and Fincantieri ACE Marine—we are exploring ways to use these emerging trends to shape the future of shipbuilding. Our goal is to enhance efficiency, improve safety, and most importantly, elevate both employee work-life balance and overall well-being—all while preserving the vital component of human touch in our work.

The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) forecasted an increased annual growth in robotics demand from 2023 to 2026, a trend that is anticipated to continue.  It is also worth noting that the United States accounted for 7% of global robotics installations in 2022.

IFR President Marina Bill notes, “We’re in the midst of a decade of unprecedented transformation, driven in part by the global pandemic and geopolitical events which are fundamentally changing the way we manufacture and deliver goods.”

Recognizing the increasing relevance of robotics in our industry and the world, we have embarked on a strategic path, incorporating advanced digital technologies and robotics into our shipyards, positioning us to build a generation of ships unlike any seen before. A marrying of automated tools with skilled labor will help bridge critical industry gaps and set a higher standard for worker quality of life.

One of our automated initiatives is the updated panel line at our Fincantieri Marinette Marine yard. Panel line fabrication, incorporating steps like welding and cutting, is both labor-intensive and time-consuming. However, our new automated panel line streamlines this process with a robotic welding station. It accelerates fitting work for secondary stiffeners and transversal elements on flat panels, significantly enhancing precision and efficiency.

Looking ahead, our U.S. yards will soon have MR4WELD. The welding robot, equipped with a six-axis robot arm operates at three times the rate of manual production. Something important to note is that it falls under the category of “cobotics,” emphasizing joint effort rather than job replacement. It is a collaboration between Fincantieri S.p.A. and COMAU, a leader in wearable robotics and automated manufacturing solutions, and both companies currently hold intellectual property rights. Strong partnerships and initiatives, like MR4WELD, make our intent crystal clear: we want to leverage innovative technologies to empower our workforce, attract young talent, and shape the future of shipbuilding.

In the summer of 2024, we teamed with COMAU again to begin trials of its MATE-XT wearable robotics. The exoskeleton, already slated for use in our parent company’s Italian shipyards, is designed to improve posture and reduce muscle fatigue during manual labor, like painting and welding. The mechanically powered device can be used both indoors and outdoors and is made of highly breathable fabric. Employees at multiple Wisconsin shipyards have a chance to try the device and provide feedback about their experience. Some of the feedback we’ve received highlights improvements in comfort and stability while working and increased energy and less fatigue after work as well.

Continuing down the path for human-centric solutions, our team is also testing cutting-edge protective equipment for our welders.  Through the use of 3M's Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) paired with one of their specialized welding helmets, users have integrated head, eye, face and respiratory protection while remaining cool and comfortable.  The system incorporates a battery powered air-purifying respirator that attaches to the welding helmet, which is designed with a low center of gravity to reduce neck strain.  It also aims to help enhance worker safety by providing a clear field of vision with minimal fogging.  Additionally, the system accommodates welders with facial hair.

Shipbuilding is no simple task. It takes years to design and build a vessel, and in the process, it exacts a toll on the minds and bodies of shipbuilders. Fortunately, we find ourselves in a time when digital advancements are more readily available than ever for industries like ours. Seizing the moment and partnering to find solutions for our people, our most valuable asset, is our priority. If we can reduce the physical strain on our employees and transform a long day’s work into one that preserves energy for friends and family, then we will have truly accomplished a job well done.