Luke Fitzgerald

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About

Luke Fitzgerald is a leading researcher in maritime robotics, specializing in autonomous systems for at-sea ship hull inspection and repair. His work focuses on integrating advanced robotic platforms with novel manufacturing techniques to solve critical challenges in the marine industry. Fitzgerald’s major contributions include pioneering the use of underwater robotics equipped with camera and laser sensors for real-time damage assessment, and developing a complete end-to-end methodology for in-water hull repair using Friction Stir Welding (FSW) of steels. His research, supported by the European Union’s RESURGAM project, demonstrates how robotic systems can perform complex tasks—from structural inspection to welding—directly in harsh marine environments, eliminating the need for dry-docking. Though early in its citation history, his work has already garnered attention for its practical impact on maritime safety and operational efficiency. Fitzgerald’s contributions are shaping the future of autonomous ship maintenance, offering scalable solutions for the global shipping industry.