Anschütz, a leading global expert in navigation and bridge systems, has successfully implemented and tested an automatic Collision Avoidance System (CAS) as part of the Kiel CAPTN initiative. This marks another milestone on the path to autonomous navigation and assistance systems for safer shipping.
The CAS is based on an algorithm that analyses the maritime situation using conventional onboard sensor data to identify potential collision risks with other vessels. In accordance with the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG), these risks are continuously assessed and dynamically displayed. If a collision risk is detected, the system automatically calculates safe manoeuvring areas and suggests trajectories, taking into account water depths, sea marks, restricted areas, and other relevant factors.
“The real-world tests in the unique test field of the Kiel CAPTN initiative have given us the opportunity to combine our research laboratory and simulator findings with practical experience and user feedback over a period of more than nine months”, said Daniel Sommerstedt, Project Manager for autonomous navigation research at Anschütz. “We have continuously gained new insights, which we have been able to incorporate directly into the optimisation of the algorithm and the simplification of the display.”
The fully rule-based COLREG algorithm proved to be consistently reliable, effective and well-parameterised during the tests in various conditions and scenarios. Target detection and assignment, situation analysis, visualisation of potential collision risks, trajectory calculation, acknowledgement and integration of the motion control system combining trackpilot and speedpilot functioned excellently together.
The system’s situation analyses and recommendations for action aligned with those of the navigators present. Tests on the Kiel Fjord highlighted challenging situations that the CAS was able to address with reliable recommendations for action, refining its performance over time.
“Automating target detection, association and evaluation in a narrow and busy area like the Kiel Fjord proved to be a challenge”, Sommerstedt explained. “We have made significant process on a steep learning curve and will continue to optimise and mature the process as part of the recently launched X-Ferry project of the CAPTN initiative.”
In this next phase, the situation analysis will be further enhanced with camera data. In addition to identifying possible additional objects, intelligent cameras will classify existing objects into categories, thereby verifying the radar and AIS assessments and providing a more complete maritime picture.
Anschütz aims to develop a market-ready, approved assistance system for professional shipping. Over the next year, Anschütz will continue testing and improving the CAS as part of the X-Ferry research project. The system will also be adapted for other prototypes, test vessels and simulators to accumulate as many test cases as possible and bring the CAS to full maturity for approval.
As part of onboard assistance systems, the CAS will improve situational awareness and alert navigators to potential collision risks. This will reduce workload in high-pressure situations and minimise human error. In certain scenarios, it may also allow for a reduced bridge crew, helping to address the shortage of qualified personnel.
Anschütz remains committed to advancing autonomous navigation through multiple research initiatives, including the CAPTN initiative in Kiel and various customer projects.
The COLREG algorithm was developed within the OCUMAR research project with project partner KIT (Karlsruhe Institute of Technology) and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.
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