Lomarlabs and Advanced Wing Systems have developed a containerised wing-sail system that operates autonomously and uses artificial intelligence to adjust to changing wind conditions. The partners aim to adapt Advanced Wing Systems’ semi-rigid sail technology for commercial ships through a modular platform that can be installed in a standard 40-foot container during port calls, without dry docking or upfront capital expenditure.
The system is designed to deploy and retract automatically. Once activated, embedded software uses AI models to control sail geometry in response to real-time wind data. According to the companies, this approach reduces the crew intervention typically required for wind-assist devices and allows the equipment to remain stowed during cargo operations. The containerised format also enables operators to lease units for limited periods and scale the number of sails per vessel.
Lomarlabs will contribute design, regulatory and operational support, along with access to the Lomar fleet for testing in commercial conditions. The companies state that this environment will be used to validate the autonomous control system, assess integration with shipboard operations and refine the business model for short-term or voyage-based deployments.
Advanced Wing Systems has previously applied its sail technology to racing yachts, where its semi-rigid profile has been tested over long distances. The current project adapts that design for larger vessels by integrating automated control, remote monitoring and protected housing within a container to reduce maintenance demands.
