A Real Time Speed Modulation System to Improve Operational Ability of Autonomous Planing Craft in a Seaway

Abstract

This study focuses on developing a control system to enhance the seaworthiness of Autonomous high-speed Planing Crafts (APCs). APCs operating at high-speed in a seaway encounter very high vertical accelerations which pose a hazard to payload and crafts' structural integrity. Therefore, for safety operation of APCs in a seaway it is proposed to employ a system termed vision-aided speed modulation system (VSMS). The proposed VSMS employs an embedded analytical tool termed Motion Assessment of Planing Craft in a Seaway (MAPCS) for the prediction of vertical accelerations and angular velocities, the APC might encounter in the incoming waves. As a response to the MAPCS predicted values the VSMS speed setting module modulates the craft's forward speed. All modules of the VSMS are presented together with their validation and system's preliminary operational results. It is concluded that VSMS might be an essential tool to considerably enhance the operational ability of APCs.