August 2010 Collision avoidance algorithms added to SPECTRE autopilot

A simple collision avoidance algorithm has been implemented on SPECTRE in order to facilitate the task of navigating safely while operating an unmanned vessel. Collision avoidance is generally a higher-level function in vehicle control, associated with mission planning and execution.

Collision avoidance may be broken down into several distinct subtasks:

1. Obstacle detection ,
2. Obstacle classification,
3. Collision avoidance route planning,
4. Route execution (autopilot functions).

Tasks 1 and 2 will be performed by an external 3rd party system. Algorithms to perform Task 3, namely how to modify the vehicle's course and speed to ensure a save passage and avoid the obstacle, have been developed and added to SPECTRE's autopilot algorithm suite. The algorithm uses basic information about the obstacle (location, characteristic size, course and speed if moving).

These calculations can either be performed internally within SPECTRE or may be performed on a separate, dedicated collision avoidance processor. In this case, the CA processor receives obstacle data as well as SPECTRE's intended course and speed; it then calculates the new course and speed, overriding SPECTRE's settings in order to avoid collisions.

July 2010 Special offer to upgrade ShipSim 1 to ShipSim 3

H Scientific is offering current registered users of ShipSim 1 a 50% discount when they upgrade to ShipSim 3. In addition, H Scientific will convert their ShipSim1 files, free-of-charge!

Upgrading to ShipSim 3 offers the following benefits:

• Latest version of the software - Note: ShipSim 1 is no longer supported,
• ShipSim 3 is more stable than ShipSim 1,
• Free support for 1 year,
• Compatible with GENIE (analogue/digital USB interface unit),
• AIS interface,
• NMEA 2000 interface,
• Radar interface,
• Record and Playback with voice annotation,
• Chart display,
• Geotiff display option,
• External view option - great for demonstrations and exhibitions,
• Interfaces with your own ship model, using a DLL interface,
• Target simulation,
• Full composite model including simulation of hydrodynamic, aerodynamic effects together with user defined configuration including waterjets, propeller, bowthrusters, multiple rudders, etc.
• Access to client download section on website - access the latest documentation via a client login section

This offer is valid until 31st August 2010 and applies to software only.

June 2010 H Scientific launch new website with client specific content

H Scientific launch their new website, complete with updated logo. The website includes client specific download sections, where existing clients can obtain latest versions of manuals and documentation for their products. Clients are issued with a user ID and password to allow them to log in.

May 2010 H Scientific test prototype stand-alone docking joystick

H Scientific have successfully trialled a new joystick which talks directly to the SPECTRE autopilot using a short range radio link. This provides a simpler and more intuitive method of controlling a vehicle, especially in close proximity to other objects, e.g. when docking. H Scientific have developed this new product which combines a 3 axis joystick, offering X, Y and yaw control, with a number of button functions. Recent tests demonstrated good, responsive performance, during tests which included docking against wind and tide and in sea-state 2-3.

May 2010 SPECTRE dynamic positioning sea trials controlling waterjet

Recent dynamic positioning sea trials with SPECTRE in control of a RHIB equipped with a waterjet engine have been extremely successful, H Scientific reports. The heading autopilot was first tuned then heading and track control tested; following that, the vessel was found to hover within a tight tolerance while subject to wind and tide.