OKI has been commissioned to carry out the research and development project “Development of continuous observation, investigation and monitoring system for vertical cross-section of ocean from sea surface to seafloor using advanced sensing technology” in the program for fostering important technologies for economic security promoted by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST).

As a result, OKI will start research and development of smart sensing using underwater acoustic technology and AI technology, and proceed with the construction of an “ocean platform” to realize “visualization of the ocean”.

The company continues to develop underwater acoustic sensors and various signal processing based on “sound” technology, and in recent years has also been conducting research on “sound” identification using its own AI technology.

By bringing together these technologies, OKI will promote the construction of a “vertical cross-section observation system” that realizes continuous monitoring of the space from the seafloor to the sea surface.
The “Vertical Cross Section Observation System” is a system that constantly observes underwater sounds like a curtain drawn from the seafloor to the surface by laying cables equipped with acoustic sensors on the seafloor, and identifies and detects ships and organisms moving on the surface or underwater.
This makes it possible to identify ships passing by from underwater sounds, which will help monitor maritime transport and ensure the safety of people involved in port work.
In addition, providing information on the distribution of marine organisms, including target species, will lead to the creation of new fishing grounds, and providing information on the habitat and behavioral ecology of marine organisms will lead to research into the protection of marine organisms.