{"id":4972,"date":"2024-12-03T20:56:02","date_gmt":"2024-12-03T19:56:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mecatron.rma.ac.be\/?page_id=4972"},"modified":"2026-01-06T11:50:17","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T10:50:17","slug":"sails","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/mecatron.rma.ac.be\/index.php\/projects\/sails\/","title":{"rendered":"SAILS"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Defence-related research action (DEFRA)<\/a><\/p>\n

2024 – 2027<\/span><\/p>\n

1.6 M\u20ac<\/p>\n

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Tien Thanh Nguyen<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Geert De Cubber<\/a><\/p>\n

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Partners<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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SAILS Project: Autonomous Maritime UAS Landing Solution<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The SAILS project addresses the challenges of safely landing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) on moving vessels, a critical capability for naval and civilian maritime operations. This project aims to develop an advanced multi-sensor system to enable the autonomous approach and landing of maritime UAS in diverse weather and sea conditions. The solution enhances operational safety, efficiency, and versatility for naval and offshore applications.<\/p>\n

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Objectives:<\/h3>\n
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    Develop an enhanced ultra-wideband (UWB) local positioning system.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    Implement reliable real-time sensor data fusion for approach and landing phases.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    Integrate multi-sensor UAS systems.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    Build and demonstrate a proof-of-concept solution.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

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    Approach:<\/h3>\n

    The project follows a four-phase methodology:<\/p>\n

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      System Design<\/strong>: Selection of sensors, system architecture development, and creation of software and algorithms for autonomous approach and landing.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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      Development and Testing<\/strong>: Hardware and software integration, followed by controlled environment testing.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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      Field Trials<\/strong>: Testing on a Navy coastal patrol vessel with the Belgian Navy and in civil applications with Maritieme Dienstverlening en Kust (MDK) under various conditions.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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      Evaluation and Optimization<\/strong>: Performance analysis, refinement, and potential feature enhancements.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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      Expected Outcomes:<\/h3>\n
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        Enhanced Safety<\/strong>: Autonomous precision landings reduce risks for personnel and equipment.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Increased Efficiency<\/strong>: Lower dependency on highly trained operators enables frequent and rapid UAS deployments.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Improved Situational Awareness<\/strong>: Real-time data from the multi-sensor system enhances decision-making capabilities.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Cost Reduction<\/strong>: Streamlined operations decrease training and operational costs.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

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        Dual-Use Potential:<\/h3>\n

        While primarily focused on military applications, SAILS also has significant civilian use cases, such as offshore inspections, search-and-rescue operations, and logistics. The solution is adaptable to various UAS platforms and enables operations in GPS-degraded or denied environments, broadening its applicability.<\/p>\n

        The SAILS project pioneers safer, more efficient maritime UAS operations, contributing to advancements in both defense and civilian sectors.<\/p>\n

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