Obstacle avoidance and trajectory optimisation for an autonomous vessel utilising MILP path planning, computer vision based perception and feedback control

In this study, we investigated autonomous vessel obstacle avoidance using advanced techniques within the Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) framework. We propose a Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) based Guidance system for robust path planning avoiding static and dynamic obstacles. For Navigation, we suggest a multi-modal neural...

Follow-the-Leader Guidance, Navigation, and Control of Surface Vessels: Design and Experiments

A novel follow-the-leader approach for azimuth-driven vessels is devised and experimentally tested in a model-scale outdoor scenario. The vessels are equipped with global navigation satellite and inertial navigation systems. A line-of-sight algorithm ensures the yaw-check ability of the follower vessel along the leader's path, while a speed...

Distributed Leader-Follower Formation Control for Autonomous Vessels based on Model Predictive Control

Formation control of autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) has been studied extensively over the last few years since it offers promising advantages. In this paper, two control methods for distributed leader-follower formation control are proposed: A Nonlinear Model Predictive Control (MPC) method and an MPC method using Feedback Linearization. One...

Model predictive trajectory tracking control and thrust allocation for autonomous vessels

The maneuvering control of autonomous vessels has been under extensive investigations by academic and industrial communities since it is one of the primary steps towards enabling unmanned shipping. In this paper, a model predictive control (MPC) approach is presented for trajectory tracking control of vessels which takes into account the...

Follow-the-leader control strategy for azimuth propulsion system on surface vessels

This paper presents an effective autonomous follow-the-leader strategy for Azimuthal Stern Drive vessels. The control logic has been investigated from a theoretical point of view. A line-of-sight algorithm is exploited to ensure yaw-check ability, while a speed-check feature is implemented to track the velocity of the target along the path....

The collaborative autonomous shipping experiment (Case): Motivations, theory, infrastructure, and experimental challenges

The future autonomous ships will be operating in an environment where different autonomous and non-autonomous vessels with different characteristics exist. These vessels are owned by different parties and each uses its owned unique approaches for guidance and navigation. The Collaborative Autonomous Shipping Experiment (CASE) aims at...

Model predictive ship collision avoidance based on Q-learning beetle swarm antenna search and neural networks

Real-time collision avoidance with full consideration of ship maneuverability, collision risks and International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) is difficult in multi-ship encounters. To deal with this problem, a novel method is proposed based on model predictive control (MPC), an improved Q-learning beetle swarm...

Eco-VTF: Fuel-efficient vessel train formations for all-electric autonomous ships

In this paper, a distributed control approach is proposed to enable fuel-efficient Vessel Train Formations (VTF) in inland waterways and port areas for addressing the efficiency and environmental issues of transport over water. For path tracking, collision avoidance, and consensus over the VTF speed a distributed Model Predictive Control (MPC...