Samsung Heavy Industries plans robotic shipbuilding

The company signed a memorandum of understanding with Rainbow Robotics to collaborate on the development and commercialisation of shipbuilding robots. The partnership will begin with the creation of AI-assisted welding robots based on collaborative robot technology, with future work to include mobile dual-arm robots and quadruped robots.

Under the agreement, SHI will contribute its operational data and testing facilities for welding robots, while Rainbow Robotics will focus on the development of hardware and supporting technologies. Both companies intend to improve on-site usability by reducing robot weight and developing models capable of operating within ship blocks and on inclined surfaces, particularly for welding curved structures that present significant challenges in manual operations.

SHI currently operates around 90 types of automation equipment and robots across various shipyard processes, including block welding, painting, LNG carrier cargo hold welding, and pipe inspection. The company has also completed the establishment of an unmanned steel cutting system, which has been running continuously since September as part of its wider push towards production automation.

Through this collaboration with Rainbow Robotics, SHI aims to advance the development and validation of robot platform technologies, expand practical applications within its shipyards, and build in-house expertise in automation. The company also intends to secure intellectual property rights associated with its automation technologies as part of its broader transition to a smart shipyard environment.

According to Kim Jin-mo, head of SHI’s Future Business Development Office, the partnership is expected to enhance the firm’s automation capabilities and support its efforts to improve ship construction efficiency and competitiveness.