Autonomous research vessel launched in Dalian

Dalian Maritime University has launched a fully autonomous research and training vessel that can also be controlled remotely, making it one of the first of its kind in the world, according to the university.

The intelligent research and training vessel, launched on Monday, measures 69.8 meters long and 10.9 m wide, and can carry a crew of 50.

It will undergo further fitting by COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry in Dalian's Ganjingzi district and is expected to be delivered for use in June next year.

"The dual-purpose vessel has achieved technological breakthroughs in autonomous navigation, ship-shore coordination, sea trials of intelligent vessel movement, and immersive intelligent teaching," said DMU president Shan Hongjun.

By using an intelligent decision-making model and an automated berthing system based on maritime regulations and navigational big data, the vessel can optimize navigation paths and utilize intelligent collision avoidance, enabling it to navigate autonomously in all waters, said Shan.

He said the vessel's comprehensive automation system integrates navigation, machinery and electrical systems, allowing for comprehensive testing and verification with a combination of virtual and real elements.

The vessel also utilizes digital twin technology to achieve scene reconstruction, providing a blended virtual and real training experiences and advanced levels of intelligent teaching, he said.

Shan said that DMU will collaborate with enterprises to build the vessel into a high-end platform for the application of new-generation intelligent ship technologies and comprehensive testing, aiming to enhance the development and utilization of intelligent ships and the research and development of ship equipment.

It will also be transformed into a high-end talent training platform for intelligent shipping, allowing students to directly experience advanced intelligent ship equipment, systems and technologies.

This vessel will provide a practical foundation for exploring innovative training models for future maritime professionals, as the vessel's advanced technology will expose students to cutting-edge ship equipment and systems and its smaller tonnage and flexibility can facilitate hands-on training for students, said Shan.

Intelligent ships have become a key development trend in the maritime industry. In 2019, the Ministry of Transport and six other departments issued guiding opinions on the development of intelligent shipping.

In recent years, DMU has conducted scientific research in the field of intelligent ships. Once operational, this vessel will primarily serve applications in intelligent research and teaching training.