This article features insights from Kieran Breheny, Strategic Progress Manager at dynautics, who elaborates on the advancements in control systems for Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) and highlights various projects undertaken by the dynautics team.
As maritime industries increasingly adopt uncrewed vessel technology for a broader array of offshore survey,surveillance,and inspection tasks,the control systems governing these versatile platforms are evolving rapidly.
Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) present a sustainable, non-invasive, and cost-efficient alternative for sectors aiming for ambitious net-zero emission targets. This technology is now widely implemented in numerous commercial initiatives globally.
The design and construction of USVs involve intricate challenges. A multitude of decisions regarding mission objectives, payload specifications, energy management, hull design, communication systems, and propulsion control must be made, assessed, and executed.
Dynautics specializes in Vessel Control Systems (VCS) and autopilot technologies that integrate seamlessly with third-party drive and motor control systems. We collaborate closely with USV manufacturers to ensure that onboard control systems and their complex integration protocols are reliable, efficient, and provide optimal functionality and redundancy.
Below, we outline a selection of our recent projects involving the MK4 (SPECTRE) and VCS (SPECTRE Plus) systems.
Advanced Engine control for the Singapore Navy
In 2021, dynautics became an authorized dealer for Mercury Marine, gaining direct access to their G3 engine setup software, essential for calibrating and enhancing engine performance. This chance led to a project involving a triple Mercury engine (900hp) VCS for the Republic of Singapore Navy’s uncrewed security and surveillance vessel.
despite a challenging timeline, our expertise with Mercury’s control protocols enabled us to deliver the MK4 autopilot, complete with a Mercury interface module, remote control handset, wiring harness, and the Dynautics Remote Control Windows (RCW) application for remote route planning. All equipment was installed, calibrated, and underwent sea trials in time for the Navy’s operational needs.
transitioning from Air to Sea with SPECTRE
ALTI – Unmanned Aircraft Systems, a leading provider of VTOL aircraft based in South Africa, caters to both civil and military sectors with UAVs for various commercial and industrial applications. In 2022, the ALTI team set out to leverage their decade of experience in unmanned aircraft operations to design a marine USV.
Given the project’s ambitious timeline, the team required a control solution that they could implement independently.Dynautics provided a SPECTRE MK4 VCS, complete with wiring harnesses and all necessary components, ready for installation. This plug-and-play solution integrated seamlessly with ALTI’s existing communication systems, facilitating a clear development and delivery pathway. Remote diagnostics where employed to expedite the retrofit installation.
Although ALTI lacked direct experience in marine operations, any installation hurdles were swiftly addressed with Dynautics’ remote support.
Royal navy Vessel Upgrades
In its pursuit of integrating autonomous technology into future naval operations, the UK’s Royal Navy is retrofitting some of its vessels for unmanned capabilities. This cost-effective strategy allows them to utilize commercial electronics and minimize non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs, thereby accelerating the operational readiness of uncrewed vessels.
To date, the Royal Navy has placed two VCS orders with Dynautics. Dr.Alison Little, a senior project engineer at Dynautics, developed custom vessel control firmware tailored to their specific operational requirements.
“Working with clients who have unique operational needs makes my role incredibly engaging. Our team thrives on tackling technically challenging control issues.The Royal Navy required specific behaviors, and I was able to simulate their needs and code the solution quickly, which was immensely rewarding.” – Dr. Alison Little, dynautics.
Precision Drive Control for a 12m Catamaran
A custom catamaran designer and builder from the Netherlands recently partnered with Dynautics for the remote control of a 12m catamaran equipped with azimuth thrusters and twin water jets. Along with designing the VCS, Dynautics provided guidance on overall system architecture, design, and the procurement of ancillary components. We developed custom CAN communication firmware to ensure precise control of the drive system, while collision avoidance software was optimized in collaboration with radar partners Simrad Marine Electronics and Cambridge Pixel.
Given the client’s innovative hull design and power management system,agility and collaboration were crucial throughout this project. Teamwork and strong partnerships are integral to Dynautics’ culture, exemplified in this accomplished endeavor.
Dynautics aims to revolutionize the marine sector through intelligent technology. As co-authors of the Marine Autonomous Surface Ships – UK code of Practice, we are actively shaping the future of marine vehicle autonomy. We simulate, design, test, verify, and deploy solutions that empower our clients to achieve their mission objectives safely and responsibly.
