A Verification, Validation and Accreditation Process for Autonomous Interoperable Systems

Tremori, Alberto; Sobrino, Pilar Caamaño; Viñas, Arnau Carrera; Maglione, Giovanni Luca; Solarna, David; Been, Robert; Mansfield, Thomas

doi:10.1007/978-3-319-76072-8_22

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 6 publications

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“…In order to ensure coherent outcomes in all network simulation configuration, new practices are necessary because of the nature of the system-of-systems relationships in a decentralized environment which simulates exchanges between autonomous assets (Hodicky, 2018 ). For VV&A of modular network of systems, (Tremori et al, 2018 ) introduces an agile M&S architecture which enables better knowledge of the whole system by testing together all its component (i.e., hardware and software) in virtual-reality environments that are operationally meaningful. The functional architecture suggested adheres to the most recent Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) recommended practice for VV&A (IEEE, 2007 ) and NATO guidelines in the sector (Ruiz et al, 2016 ).…”

Section: Interoperability Background and Relevant Literaturementioning

confidence: 99%

Interoperability Among Unmanned Maritime Vehicles: Review and First In-field Experimentation

et al. 2020

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Complex maritime missions, both above and below the surface, have traditionally been carried out by manned surface ships and submarines equipped with advanced sensor systems. Unmanned Maritime Vehicles (UMVs) are increasingly demonstrating their potential for improving existing naval capabilities due to their rapid deployability, easy scalability, and high reconfigurability, offering a reduction in both operational time and cost. In addition, they mitigate the risk to personnel by leaving the man far-from-the-risk but in-the-loop of decision making. In the long-term, a clear interoperability framework between unmanned systems, human operators, and legacy platforms will be crucial for effective joint operations planning and execution. However, the present multi-vendor multi-protocol solutions in multi-domain UMVs activities are hard to interoperate without common mission control interfaces and communication protocol schemes. Furthermore, the underwater domain presents significant challenges that cannot be satisfied with the solutions developed for terrestrial networks. In this paper, the interoperability topic is discussed blending a review of the technological growth from 2000 onwards with recent authors' in-field experience; finally, important research directions for the future are given. Within the broad framework of interoperability in general, the paper focuses on the aspect of interoperability among UMVs not neglecting the role of the human operator in the loop. The picture emerging from the review demonstrates that interoperability is currently receiving a high level of attention with a great and diverse deal of effort. Besides, the manuscript describes the experience from a sea trial exercise, where interoperability has been demonstrated by integrating heterogeneous autonomous UMVs into the NATO Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) network, using different robotic middlewares and acoustic modem technologies to implement a multistatic active sonar system. A perspective for the interoperability in marine robotics missions emerges in the paper, through a discussion of current capabilities, in-field experience and future advanced technologies unique to UMVs. Nonetheless, their application spread is slowed down by the lack of human confidence. In fact, an interoperable system-of-systems of autonomous UMVs will require operators involved only at a supervisory level. As trust develops, endorsed by stable and mature interoperability, human monitoring will be diminished to exploit the tremendous potential of fully autonomous UMVs.

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Section: Interoperability Background and Relevant Literaturementioning

confidence: 99%

Interoperability Among Unmanned Maritime Vehicles: Review and First In-field Experimentation

et al. 2020

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Expediting recovery of autonomous underwater vehicles in dynamic mission environments: A system‐of‐systems challenge for underwater warfare

Keane

Joiner

Arulampalam

et al. 2022

Journal of Field Robotics

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As autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) adoption increases, operators demand advanced behaviors from commercial off‐the‐shelf systems. However, new behaviors can often only be deployed operationally once assured. This paper overviews research into expediting recovery to an operator's vessel through a custom homing behavior, demonstrating technology advancement in conjunction with test and evaluation activities. Advanced docking infrastructure and frameworks are still under development, yet current AUV operations require rapid and reliable recovery when mission factors change. Homing is achieved with a directional acoustic transponder providing range and bearing data to the AUV from the operator's vessel. A converted measurement Kalman filter processes range and bearing data that generates dynamic waypoints for the AUV through MOOS‐IvP as a backseat driver; a universal approach and filtering that is unique from prior AUV research. Results from simulations and field trials were analysed through a modular and experimental Test & Evaluation framework that was adopted specifically to help verify and validate the new AUV behavior, including systematic variations in recovery boat manoeuvres. The process includes documented use for the first time in AUV research of combinatorial screening (high throughput testing) and an average standardized residual metric to focus development early, encourage constructive iteration and build operational and engineering trust. Consistent homing was demonstrated with localization within 0.3 m and homing within 1.8 m of a moving digital acoustic transponder.

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Approaches to Realize the Potential of Autonomous Underwater Systems in Concept Development and Experimentation

Mansfield

Sobrino

Viñas

et al. 2019

Modelling and Simulation for Autonomous Systems

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A Verification, Validation and Accreditation Process for Autonomous Interoperable Systems

Cited by 3 publications

References 6 publications

Interoperability Among Unmanned Maritime Vehicles: Review and First In-field Experimentation

Interoperability Among Unmanned Maritime Vehicles: Review and First In-field Experimentation

Expediting recovery of autonomous underwater vehicles in dynamic mission environments: A system‐of‐systems challenge for underwater warfare

Approaches to Realize the Potential of Autonomous Underwater Systems in Concept Development and Experimentation

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