Digital technologies are playing an increasingly important role in improving the safety, efficiency and sustainability of inland waterway transport (IWT). Among these developments, advanced sensor systems are emerging as important tools supporting these improvements and helping prepare the ground for future automated operations.
Recent research carried out by the German Aerospace Center (DLR) Within the II-RADAR-SOW project, have been developing and testing radar-based assistance systems designed to improve navigation in complex and dynamic waterway environments.
Advanced Sensor Technologies Supporting the Digitalisation of the IWT sector
the II-RADAR-SOW project carried out experiments on the Spree-Oder digital waterway test field in Germany. Over two years, DLR’s research vessel AURORA tested a range of navigation scenarios, including lock passages, bridge detection and manoeuvring through narrow channels.
These tests allowed researchers to assess how sensor-based navigation systems could support crews in everyday operations.
The project explores the use of different sensors working together. Radar can detect objects and measure distance even in poor visibility, while lidar and cameras provide additional information about the surrounding environment. By combining these technologies, vessels can better detect infrastructure such as quay walls, riverbanks and bridges, improving situational awareness during navigation.
How will DiVINE support the digitalization uptake?
Projects such as II-RADAR-SOW show how digital technologies are advancing in the inland waterway transport (IWT) sector. To fully benefit from these developments, the sector will need to be ready to integrate new technologies into everyday operations, otherwise, it risks being left behind. This includes ensuring that infrastructure and regulatory frameworks evolve in a coordinated way.
In this context, the work carried out within the DiVINE project contributes to identifying how the Digitalisation Vision for Inland Waterway Transport can be implemented in practice. By engaging stakeholders from across the sector, the project helps ensure that the conditions are in place for the gradual uptake of digital solutions in inland navigation.
Examples such as the work carried out by DLR highlight the type of technological developments that may shape the future of the sector and underline the importance of preparing the right framework for their deployment.
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