The MTRU Research Day offers an exciting opportunity to explore how advancements in marine technology, artificial intelligence and interactivity are transforming marine conservation and digital heritage. Participants will see firsthand how AI can analyze complex marine data, while interactive tools bring underwater environments to life, making marine science more accessible and engaging. With presentations from industry experts, researchers and PhD students working in conservation, archaeology, and digital technology, the day will showcase pioneering projects and inspire new ideas for preserving and understanding our oceans.
The MTRU Research Day will be held at the University of Essex campus on Tuesday 19 November 2024.
Location: Colloquium Room (5A.540), Colchester campus, Essex, UK and Zoom
09:30 Tea/coffee in the MTRU lab (5A.522), please bring a reusable cup to reduce our waste.
10:00 Welcome and Introduction to the Marine Technology Research Unit (Dr Jon Chamberlain)
10:20 3D Photogrammetry on the Thistlegorm shipwreck in Egypt’s Red Sea (Simon Brown, Accupixel)
AccuPixel Ltd specializes in underwater and terrestrial photogrammetry, focusing on creating digital records of historic sites. Among their projects is the SS Thistlegorm shipwreck in Egypt’s Red Sea, a renowned dive site. The SS Thistlegorm lies in the Gulf of Gubal near Shag Rock, at depths from 12 to 32 meters, with its propeller resting at 32 meters. This British ship sank in 1941 after a bombing while waiting to pass through the Suez Canal. The explosion split the ship, sending it to the seafloor with its cargo of vehicles and motorcycles still visible today. The Thistlegorm Project focuses on preserving the wreck’s history, and AccuPixel’s photogrammetry work helps ensure its legacy remains intact for future generations.
Session 1: Artificial Intelligence, Photogrammetry and Marine Technology (Chair: Dr Louis Clift)
11:00 From Reefs to Pixels: Uncovering Norfolk’s Chalk Reef Complexity with 3D Modelling (Jess Rhodes)
11:20 Computer vision for seabed exploration: Building a Hector Detector (Emma Poliakova)
11:40 Can citizen scientists create 3D models of marine environments? (Dr Jon Chamberlain)
12:00 Creating Digital Brain Maps with Artificial Intelligence (Samia Mohinta, University of Cambridge)
12:20 Lunch, posters and demos in the MTRU lab (5A.522) including an opportunity to get hands on with the new Fifish E-Go ROV courtesy of Mantsbrite Marine.
Mantsbrite is a UK distributor of marine electronic and navigation equipment for commercial and leisure use. With over 50 years of experience, they provide system design, installation, and support, along with repairs and accessories. Based in Maldon, their head office features a showroom with a comprehensive range of equipment, including QYSEA FIFISH ROVs, providing hands-on access and expert advice.
13:20 Marine technology for tomorrow: a Manx perspective on marine conservation (Dr Lara Howe, Manx Wildlife Trust, Isle of Man)
The Manx Wildlife Trust is utilizing cutting-edge technology to advance marine conservation around the Isle of Man. A significant innovation is their use of heat-detecting drones to conduct accurate, non-intrusive counts of seals along the coast. This thermal imaging technology allows them to monitor seal populations from above, minimizing disturbance to the animals while providing reliable data on their numbers and distribution. By employing such innovative tools, the Trust is enhancing its ability to protect local marine species and habitats, gathering insights that will inform and improve conservation strategies across the region.
Session 2: Beyond Vision: Innovations in Marine Technology and AI (Chair: Jess Rhodes)
14:00 Deep Learning for the Deep Sea: Advancing Shark Detection with AI (Grace Long)
14:20 Simulation of Maritime Environments for Preparation to Operate in High-pressure Conditions (Richard Lay-Flurrie)
14:40 Finding a Needle in a Haystack: UK Seahorses (Russ Connelly)
15:00 A review of some marine-related spatial heritage projects delivered by ThinkSee3D with methods (Steven Dey, ThinkSee3D)
15:20 Fishbowl session: Open discussion on future trends for marine technology led by Steven Dey from ThinkSee3D.
ThinkSee3D specializes in high-quality 3D content production for heritage, education, science, healthcare, art, film, gaming, VR, and research. They provide professional 3D digitization using a refined photogrammetry workflow, digital asset creation, 3D animation, and physical replica production for artifacts, fossils, and exhibits. ThinkSee3D collaborates with leading museums and universities, including the British Museum, National Museums Scotland, and the University of Cambridge, offering cutting-edge solutions for exhibitions, education, and research.
16:00 Close and drinks in MTRU lab (5A.522)
Pool session with Ipswich Scuba
There is an opportunity to join us for a Try Dive if you have never experienced SCUBA diving before. Please contact us for details in advance (£35 all equipment included).
18:30 Leave Colchester
19:30 Try Dive with Ipswich Scuba / pool session
21:00 End Try Dive
22:00 Return to Colchester
