Kieran Breheny, Strategic Development Manager at Dynautics explains the team’s involvement in the design and supply of the Vessel Control System (VCS), as well as the development of custom CAN communication firmware to provide precise control of the drive system, for RC Dock Engineering’s workboat catamaran, which is capable of remotely controlled unmanned operations such as offshore surveying and subsea inspection, maintenance and repair.
Image: RC Dock Engineering BV
Dynautics provides Vessel Control System (VCS) and autopilot technology that seamlessly integrates into third party drive and motor control systems. We work closely with USV manufacturers to ensure that onboard control systems and their complex integration protocols are robust, efficient and above all provide optimal functionality and redundancy.
Netherlands-based RC Dock Engineering enlisted Dynautics for the remote control of a 12m catamaran vessel, the first of 20 new remotely controlled unmanned workboats developed by the company, with azimuth thrusters and twin water jets.
As well as designing the Vessel Control System (VCS), Dynautics also advised on overall system architecture, design and the purchase of ancillary parts. We developed custom CAN communication firmware to provide precise control of the drive system and collision avoidance software was optimized with radar partners Simrad and Cambridge Pixel.
The catamaran has since been granted RINA class approval. These automated vessels are able to conduct remotely controlled unmanned operations in areas such as offshore survey and subsea inspection, maintenance and repair.
With RC Dock Engineering’s new hull design, transmission and power management arrangement, agility and collaboration were key on this project. Teamwork and strong partnerships are hard-wired into Dynautics’ culture and this was a great example of those values at work.
