The Port of Hamburg is currently testing the use of Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASV), which can offer a number of advantages for hydrography. ASVs support the conventional sounding work of surveying vessels and can reach areas difficult to access.

Their operation aspires to increase efficiency through 24/7 soundings. As of now, autonomous driving in the Port of Hamburg is in the test phase.

Along with MacArtney Germany, HafenCity University and L3-ASV, the Hamburg Port Authority called to a workshop regarding the use of autonomous / automated vehicles in hydrography.

Two ASV, the C-CAT3 and C-Worker 5, were presented during the workshop and measured the Baakenhafen hydrographically on that day. However, as they were not yet allowed to drive autonomously, they were steered from land.

Water Drones in the Port of Hamburg

The use of Autonomous Surface Vehicles, ASV in short, is currently being tested in the Port of Hamburg.

The ASV offer a number of advantages for hydrography. Currently, autonomous driving in the Port of Hamburg is in the test phase. Together with MacArtney Germany, HafenCity University and L3-ASV, the HPA invited to a workshop on the use of autonomous / automated vehicles in hydrography. 120 experts from all over Europe came. Two ASV, the C-CAT3 and C-Worker 5, were presented during the workshop and measured the Baakenhafen hydrographically on that day. However, they were not yet allowed to drive autonomously, rather they were steered from land.

Safety is the top priority, so extensive testing is being carried out to see how the water drones can operate autonomously in the port. The Port of Hamburg is thus setting another technological milestone. 

Source: Port Hamburg