In a significant stride towards autonomous navigation systems, Anschütz GmbH has been actively engaged in research through its Clean Autonomous Public Transportation Network (CAPTN).
The CAPTN envisions developing autonomous, safe, and sustainable public transport systems. The company is focused on developing solutions for (partially) autonomous bridge systems and assistance mechanisms to aid navigators, reduce errors, and enhance overall safety and efficiency in shipping.
As part of this ongoing research initiative, the MV Wavelab is currently operational in a distinctive maritime test field on the Kiel Fjord. The vessel is being remotely monitored and controlled from a Remote Operating Centre at Anschütz.
So far, our focus has been on finding out what information needs to be presented to users and how, so that they can monitor and remotely control a ship safely and efficiently
… said Daniel Sommerstedt, Head of Research Projects at Anschütz.
The ongoing automation efforts involve enhancing control and drive systems on the Wavelab, incorporating Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) and autopilot interactions for remote and autonomous operations.
In the upcoming project phase in 2024, Anschütz plans to develop and test assistance systems, including collision avoidance scenarios based on artificial intelligence. The systems aim to analyze maritime situations and provide navigators with recommendations on maintaining course or initiating evasive maneuvers.
The CAPTN initiative’s broader vision is to create autonomous, safe, and sustainable public transport systems. It includes connecting the eastern and western shores of the Kiel Fjord with autonomous, low-emission passenger ferries. The research catamaran Wavelab, the largest vessel for autonomous shipping in Germany in its class, is equipped with Anschütz’s SYNAPSIS NX Integrated Navigation System.
The CAPTN initiative involves a network of industry-leading companies and universities conducting research funded by the German Federal Ministry for Digitalisation and Transport. Project partners include Anschütz GmbH, Addix GmbH, the University of Applied Sciences of Kiel, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel (CAU), FuE-Zentrum FH Kiel GmbH, and the Science Center (WiZe) Kiel GmbH. The initiative’s ongoing projects focus on advancing autonomous shipping technologies in the Kiel Fjord, contributing to safer, more efficient, and flexible maritime solutions.
