ARL, Robert Gordon University Partner on Swarm Tech Research

Autonomous Robotics Ltd (ARL) is collaborating with Robert Gordon University (RGU) on swarm technology research (Swarm Technology) of a simultaneous, distributed and scalable localisation system for a swarm of autonomous underwater sensor flying nodes.

The purpose of this research is to further enhance the capability of the flying node system and further reduce the cost and time for ocean bottom seismic surveys.

RGU is a leading Scottish university in Aberdeen, the oil capital of Europe, and its School of Engineering has an outstanding track record of working in collaboration with industry. The Swarm Technology research will be performed by Dr Wai-keung Fung and Mr Adham Sabra, who are with the Communications and Autonomous Systems Group within the School of Engineering, with results of the research expected within 12 months.

Dave Grant (ARL Chairman) said, “ARL are working with RGU to research and create a practical localisation system for the flying node system which will allow the flying nodes to operate in a swarm and move from their initial seabed position to a new seabed location. This Swarm Technology will be used to enhance the capability of the flying node system and provide even greater savings in cost and time for the offshore energy operators performing ocean bottom seismic surveys. I would also like to thank the Oil & Gas Innovation Centre (OGIC) for their support of this project. OGIC assists companies to find academic partners and provides funding for innovative projects which benefit the oil & gas industry.”

Dr Wai-keung Fung, Group lead of the Communications and Autonomous Systems Group at RGU, added: “This great opportunity enables our research group to apply AI algorithms for large scale underwater swarm localisation, which is one of the core research problems in underwater robotics and sensor networks. Localisation accuracy can be greatly improved by fusing estimates from multiple localisation methods. This can enhance autonomous deployment and retrieval of underwater flying nodes for various subsea missions, including marine seismic surveys.”

Ian Phillips, Chief Executive of OGIC, added: “These examples highlight the exciting technology which can be developed when we work with the expertise and knowledge that exists within Scottish universities. Supporting these university-introduced projects is just another way we are continuing to invest in the future of the industry.”