MariNet simulator
Russian developers have launched a scheme for a unique technological platform that will allow testing in a virtual environment of unmanned surface vessel navigation. The project will be presented by the working group MariNet of the National Technological Initiative (NTI) on the sidelines of the prestigious international exhibition NEVA-2017 in St Petersburg, from September 19-21.
The open-code platform is seen as providing safe and cost-effective validation of such unmanned vessel navigation systems. Intended for commercial application, the solution integrates various simulation models and is heralded as the first to offer a full-scale model of an unmanned surface vessel that will take into account its manoeuvrability, behaviour and interaction with VTS and ordinary ships and much more.
The simulation platform will be used by relevant organisations for safe development, testing and further certification of unmanned surface vessels and their components.
Russian projects for unmanned surface marine vessels (USVs or drones) occupy a special niche in maritime and river business. Victor Olersky, deputy transport minister, head of the Federal Agency for Sea and River Transport, has already assigned the task of developing electronic navigation charts, of using USVs for depth measurement, and navigation situation monitoring. Mr Olersky says that the surface drones could be deployed for remote measurement of depths, for navigation monitoring, or for dredging-fleet position determination.
The working group MariNet is devoted to the creation in Russia of unmanned surface marine vessels and related services. The federal government has awarded financial support through the National Technological Initiative to several projects that are related to autonomous and unmanned surface marine vessels navigation technology, and draft amendments are being prepared in the Russian and international legislation framework.
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News credits: IAA Port News
