Technologies project to aid RIB rescues

Seven students at Wales’ UWC Atlantic College who have been developing their ideas for new search and rescue marine technologies, including scouting drones, took party in a collaborative development session with three Rolls-Royce marine engineers.

Erol Balkovic, one of the students involved with the project, explained: “One of our ideas revolves around the idea that technology can essentially become the eyes and ears of a search and rescue team, pinpointing the location of a person or boat in trouble and making the entire process more efficient. This could help save lives otherwise lost at sea.

“This mentoring opportunity with Rolls-Royce allowed us to develop our ideas. It was an eye-opening session for us, and we cannot wait for the next one.”

Innovative ideas

Bernard Twomey, regulatory development lead (marine) at Rolls-Royce and one of the engineers who worked with the students to develop systematic approaches to developing their ideas, commented: “Many of their ideas are unique, completely new to the industry. It was a pleasure to help them take those ideas further, and we are looking forward to seeing how the collaborative project unfolds.”

Discussion in the session focused on topics such as automation and physics. The group also considered the materials and manufacturing processes that could be utilised when turning their ideas into physical products.

Also at the session was Simon O’Connor, a marine engineer in Rolls-Royce’s naval business and Don Murray, senior vice president (manufacturing) at the company.