AUVs Take Center Stage in Lisbon Security Program

Two Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), specifically developed for the SUPPORT (Security UPgrade for PORTS) project, an integrated four year research and development project, part-funded by the European Commission’s FP7 Security Research Program, will be demonstrated to key stakeholders at the Port of Lisbon on May 22, 2014.

Coordinated by BMT Group Ltd (BMT), SUPPORT has been exploring the use of AUVs to help address the issue of underwater threats in ports, reaping from the expertise which was drawn from the recent SHOAL project. In partnership with Bristol Robotics Laboratory and SonarSim, BMT has designed a cost effective prototype which utilizes intelligent algorithms and behavior, in order to leverage as much as possible from low-cost sensors.

Luke Speller, Senior Research Scientist at BMT Group commented, “A common issue with security solutions and AUVs is the high cost of systems, therefore it was important for us to look at ways of designing a low cost solution which could help improve overall port security.”

Speller continued, “A distinct differentiator is the AUV’s ability to multi-task. Not only will it be possible for the AUV to provide 24-hour surveillance and monitor port infrastructure for particular threats such as UIED’s (Underwater Improvised Explosion Devices), ports around the world could potentially use this intelligent machine to monitor pollution, conduct radiation testing or inspect the hull of a ship.”

Comprising a collaboration of 21 European organizations, SUPPORT integrates legacy port systems with new surveillance and information management systems. It efficiently supports the complexity of a real port environment through a more integrated, holistic approach. This ensures an improved level of security, while reducing the administrative burden on the port.

Anyone wishing to attend the demonstration should contact Liz Churchman at Emmett & Smith via [email protected] or telephone 020 7384 7110.

supportproject.info