Sea Machines, HamiltonJet begin trials of autonomous workboat

Sea Machines Robotics and HamiltonJet have begun conducting trials of a shallow-draught workboat fitted with an autonomous control system.

The trials seek to validate the suitability of autonomous control systems for water-jet vessels optimised for near-shore or coastal operations.

Sea Machines states that, in addition to providing full autonomy, the control system’s precise waypoint following ability will further enhance the flexibility of water-jet workboats, which already benefit from increased manoeuvrability and responsiveness as well as precise station-keeping afforded by water-jet propulsion.

The trials are being carried out in Christchurch, New Zealand.