Unmanned Systems Technology 004 | Delair-Tech DT18 | Autopilots | Rotron RT600 | Unmanned surface vehicles | AMRC | Motion control | Batteries

52 T he development of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) for shipping applications is facing some key challenges. Although the underlying technology to allow unmanned ships is available, the ability to test and verify them is being restricted by safety regulations. At the moment, every demonstration of a USV requires a ‘man in the loop’, either on board the craft or nearby. This echoes the situation with remote control aerial systems ten years ago, and the marine industry is looking at accelerating developments by demonstrating the safe operation of the technology to regulators. A new draft set of regulations prepared by the Maritime Autonomous Systems Regulatory Working Group is now out for consultation in the UK, covering not only the safe operation of autonomous vessels but also the environmental impact of their use and construction. A number of applications with varying technology requirements are emerging for unmanned shipping. Rolls-Royce for example is looking at developing large autonomous container ships powered by its turbine engines. By eliminating the crew’s quarters, the ships can be more fuel-efficient and carry more cargo, but the international maritime regulations that have been agreed for 2015 do not include autonomous operation, and they are not set to be revised until 2025. Meanwhile, smaller unmanned craft are being developed for the oil and gas industry, to allow re-stocking of remote platforms and monitoring of pipelines in dangerous weather. Other applications for smaller craft include scientific monitoring and anti-poaching duties, where the craft can be powered by ocean currents, solar or even wind energy by turbine or sail. Defence requirements are also driving the development of USV systems, with small unmanned craft being used as target ‘drones’ and as minesweepers to trigger acoustic mines safely. The design cycle for large vessels such as container ships means that the planning for autonomous versions is The shipping forecast Autumn 2015 | Unmanned Systems Technology Nick Flaherty reports on the technology and emerging applications for the burgeoning market for unmanned sea vessels Rolls-Royce believes now is the right time to start developing large autonomous container ships (Courtesy of Rolls-Royce)