Newport News Shipbuilding hosted a successful engagement event with Japanese guests from the Monohakobi Technology Institute (MTI), National Maritime Research Institute (NMRI), and Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). The January event was led by E92 and focused on the company’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives in shipbuilding.

The discussion centered on model-based systems engineering (MBSE), model-based definition (MBD), artificial intelligence (AI) integration, and introduction demos to visual work instructions (VWI), virtual reality (VR) and laser scanning.

Shaina Baker (E92 PEER) explained that MBSE is one area where NNS is leading the way in innovation – a direct ask from the U.S. Navy.

“It is a learning curve for everyone involved,” she said. MBSE uses a computer program to manage requirements and specifications to predict how a product will perform.

This collaborative event highlighted the shared objectives between NNS and the visiting organizations to improve shipbuilding through digital initiatives. Additionally, it revealed common challenges in implementing digital transformation.

“As we deliver upon our mission to strengthen American shipbuilding, we are collaborating and benchmarking not just nationally, but across international bounds with those that do it well,” said Jonathan Sherman (E01), chief technology officer. “The Japanese are eager to help here.”

Following the event, MTI reached out to their partners at the University of Michigan’s Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering department to express the positive and productive nature of the meeting. A faculty member from the University of Michigan subsequently contacted Sherman to inform him about a one-year project focused on AI and robotics in support of ship construction, with a particular emphasis on outfitting and rework. The project aims to ensure that developed technologies are shaped by shipyard expertise and operational realities, facilitating their effective transition to future shipyard settings.

Ensuring alignment across multiple disciplines is crucial for NNS’ progressive shipbuilding efforts, particularly in its work with the Navy.