The HS4U project is developing and testing innovative sensors and actuators (S&A) to enhance epidemic prevention and mitigation on cruise ships. These technologies are designed to ensure early detection of health risks, minimize pathogen spread, and support a safer cruise environment. The HS4U pilots will validate these solutions in real-world conditions.

One of the key developments is a virus detection system designed to identify pathogens in HVAC systems and wastewater. By integrating functionalized carbon nanotube sensors, this system can provide real-time monitoring, offering an early warning of potential outbreaks. Complementing this, a probiotic air purification system disperses beneficial microbes through the ship’s air system, actively reducing the presence of harmful bacteria and viruses while requiring minimal maintenance.

To further enhance onboard hygiene, self-sanitizing antimicrobial coatings have been developed for high-contact surfaces such as textiles, furniture, and door handles. These coatings, incorporating colloidal silver, provide a long-lasting protective layer against microbial contamination. Additionally, a wastewater sampler is being deployed to detect viral loads in blackwater, enabling early identification of infections through wastewater-based epidemiology.For continuous monitoring of onboard conditions, a generic communication module integrates multiple environmental sensors, ensuring interoperability with HS4U’s Collaborative Digital Framework (CDF). This digital backbone processes sensor data and enables automated response mechanisms, including real-time alerts and control over air filtration and hygiene systems. The Generic Communication Module (GCM) collects environmental sensor data and transmits it to the Collaborative Digital Framework (CDF), which processes the information for outbreak management​

Passenger health monitoring is also being enhanced through a symptom assistant dashboard equipped with body temperature sensors, allowing for immediate reporting and assessment of potential cases. To support outbreak control, a contact tracing system utilizing smart wearables will identify exposure risks while ensuring privacy compliance.

These technologies will be tested in HS4U pilot deployments, ensuring smooth integration into existing cruise ship infrastructure. The combined system will provide real-time health data, improve outbreak response, and enhance overall passenger and crew safety. By leveraging smart sensing and actuation, HS4U is setting a new standard for health resilience in the cruise industry.