The University of Wollongong is leading a project to improve the detection and mapping of internal waves in the ocean using advanced AI technology.
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| AI-powered tools created by UOW are set to transform the way we monitor and understand oceanic internal waves, ensuring safer and more sustainable marine activities. Image: UOW |
The University of Wollongong (UOW) has secured a grant to develop cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) tools for monitoring oceanic internal waves using satellite imagery. The project, funded by the Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO), aims to revolutionize the way internal waves are detected and mapped.
Internal waves, formed by the interaction of water layers with different densities, pose significant risks to underwater operations, offshore structures, and marine ecosystems. By accurately identifying and tracking these waves, researchers can better protect critical infrastructure and understand ocean dynamics.
A team of experts from UOW's Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences will lead the project, leveraging their expertise in AI, image processing, and deep learning. Professor Son Lam Phung, one of the principal investigators, explained that the project will focus on developing algorithms capable of precisely locating and recognizing internal waves from high-resolution satellite images.
"The proposed technology will utilize the latest advances in AI to automatically identify groups of internal waves and determine their characteristics, such as wave directions and intensities," Professor Phung said. "The resulting AI tools will be invaluable for the AGO, providing faster and more accurate data for oceanographic monitoring."
Beyond its technological advancements, the project will also contribute to the development of future AI experts. Several PhD candidates at UOW will receive training and support, fostering the next generation of researchers in this critical field.
This initiative aligns with UOW's commitment to addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By enhancing our understanding of oceanic processes and protecting marine environments, the project contributes to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which aims to promote sustainable industrialization and resilient infrastructure.
As the project progresses, it is anticipated that the AI tools developed by UOW researchers will have a significant impact on various industries, including marine science, shipping, and offshore energy.