BMT partners with ATLAS ELEKTRONIK UK to enhance autonomous maritime navigation
BMT collaborates with ATLAS ELEKTRONIK UK (AEUK) to enhance autonomous maritime navigation through its Synthetic Environment Assurance Service (SEAS) testbed. This partnership evaluates AEUK’s autonomous navigation system, ARCIMS, focusing on its decision-making capabilities and compliance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). The ARCIMS platform, known for modularity and adaptability, supports autonomous mine warfare and uncrewed vessel operations.
The SEAS testbed enables testing in simulated maritime environments, replicating complex scenarios under controlled conditions. This ensures readiness for certification and safe integration into real-world maritime operations, addressing key challenges in COLREGs compliance. AEUK’s system undergoes stress-tests to refine algorithms and validate safe operational decisions.
? Will Alexander, Campaign Lead for Maritime Autonomous Systems at BMT, states: “Simulation-based assurance is vital for developing reliable autonomous systems. Trustworthy AI ensures systems are compliant and capable of making informed decisions in dynamic maritime environments.”
The collaboration also aids the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) in advancing guidelines for marine autonomy certification. The SEAS platform reduces live testing costs, defines safe operating envelopes, and supports certification procedures, benefiting AEUK, the UK Naval Authority Technical Group (NATG), and the broader maritime community.
? Ian Renton, Principal Software Engineer at AEUK, shares: “This exercise is invaluable for improving algorithms and ensuring COLREGs compliance through tailored scenarios and specialist insights.”
? Stephen Perry from MOD’s Naval Authority highlights: “The MASS SEAS methodology enables the UK MOD to establish frameworks for the certification of marine autonomy. Independent reports from Recognised Organisations (RO) strengthen the safety-certifying process.”
This initiative exemplifies BMT’s contributions to maritime autonomy, leveraging simulation and engineering expertise to support MAS compliance and regulatory advancements.
?? Source: BMT