Researchers of CoSys-Lab, a research group in the University of Antwerp’s Faculty of Applied Engineering, have developed a 3D sonar sensor with 32 sophisticated waterproof microphones to enhance the automated navigation in inland shipping at the port of Antwerp.
[s2If is_user_logged_in()]The University of Antwerp (UAntwerp), the Port of Antwerp and CoSys-Lab are collaborating on a project, called eRTIS (embedded Real Time Imaging Sonar), to test innovative technology in the inland shipping sector.
The key of the 3D sonar sensors inspiration was the way bats see the world, according to the port’s statement. “The information is transmitted in real time, because if there are any delays, the ship could crash into something. The ‘Imaging Sonar’ part refers to reflected sound waves hitting the sensors to create a picture of the surroundings,” explains Jan Steckel, proffesor at UAntwerp.
At CoSys-Lab, Steckel has developed advanced sensor systems that can withstand harsh conditions. “In order to achieve a fully autonomous navigation, constant monitoring of the ship’s surroundings is absolutely crucial,” he points out. “Cameras can be used, of course, but when visibility is poor – due to dust, water sprays, mud, smoke or fog – they don’t work properly.”
Sonar sensors, however, remain fully functional under such circumstances, as they can provide a reliable picture of the ship’s surroundings at a low cost. Steckel mentioned, “We drew our inspiration from the way bats use echolocation. They emit sound waves, and when those waves hit objects, the bats hear the echoes of these collisions, allowing them to avoid obstacles flawlessly.”
In the last weeks of 2020, the technology was successfully tested on the Tuimelaar, one of the Port of Antwerp’s test vessels, while in 2021, there will be a follow-up project: as part of the Smart Docking Innovation Challenge, the Port of Antwerp has given the green light to Jan Steckel’s 3D Sonar and Lidar for Vessel Monitoring project.
“In 2019, over 42% of all goods entered or left the port of Antwerp via inland waterways,” said port alderman Annick De Ridder, who went on to add, “In other words, inland shipping is crucial if we want to ensure the accessibility of our city and our port. By focusing on technology such as unmanned navigation, we want to further increase both the market share and the competitiveness of inland shipping.”
“Unfortunately, inland shipping is not exactly a sexy sector”, said Svetlana Samsonova. As liaison officer, she co-ordinates many different joint research projects carried out by the University of Antwerp and the Port of Antwerp. “Attracting young talent to this sector is not an easy feat. That’s why we focus so strongly on innovation,” she added.
“Unmanned vessels can be cost effective, as well as providing an answer to the increasing traffic congestion problems and the rising costs, both financial and environmental, of road transport. Smart vessels definitely have a part to play in the multimodal transport approach that the Port of Antwerp wants to help develop further,” commented Samsonova.[/s2If]
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