Sea Machines Robotics introduces new autonomous technology for marine vessels

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Sea Machines Robotics has successfully completed product sea trials of its introductory line of intelligent command and control systems, which have been developed to meet the challenges of offshore commercial, scientific and government applications, the company says.

According to Sea Machines Robotics, the two new products, SM300 and SM200, take the marine industry into a new era of “task-driven, computer-guided vessel operations”; ultimately bringing advanced autonomy “within reach” for small- and large-scale operators.

Capable of being integrated with existing vessel systems and sensors, the flagship SM300 can manage pre-planned and “dynamically charted missions” through: “a point-and-go user interface; pilot-by-wire propulsion and steering control; certified, embedded Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS); situational awareness via electronic charts, ARPA, and AIS; obstacle and traffic avoidance; remote communications via wireless, 4G and satellite; real-time data feed to remote operator; condition monitoring of hull and machinery; and remote payload control.”

An “industrial-grade vessel intelligence system” that provides “operator-in-the loop” command and control, along with direct remote-control operation via wireless belt pack, the SM300’s targeted applications include multi-waypoint missions, ocean search and survey, patrol and surveillance, and mothership-daughter vessel collaborations.

The SM200 provides “fully integrated, line-of-sight and remote-vessel control for collaborative vessel operations.”

“This is the advanced technology that mariners have long been awaiting,” says Sea Machines’ CEO Michael G. Johnson.

“Our products allow operators and crew to focus on higher-value tasks while at sea,” empowering a commercial vessel to do more with predictable results and lower operational costs. Missions such as survey, fishing, dredging, surveillance and offshore energy support can now be executed productively around the clock and in extreme weather conditions, with improved crew safety and efficiency.”

The SM product family, which incorporates “communication interfaces for integration with on-board digital, analog and mechanical systems,” can be installed into existing or new-build vessels. Thanks to the company’s modular design, installation and commissioning can be completed in days for most vessels.

Below: Sea Machines Robotics says that its two new products, SM300 and SM200, take the marine industry into a new era of “task-driven, computer-guided vessel operations”; ultimately bringing advanced autonomy “within reach” for small- and large-scale operators. Photo: Sea Machines Robotics