Marine Vehicle Management Technologies: Marine Autopilots, Remote Control Systems, and Simulation Solutions

Unmanned Catamaran Receives VCS & Custom Firmware

Dynautics’ Kieran Breheny outlines how the team went about designing and supplying a vessel control system and customized firmware for an unmanned workboat catamaran Feature Article by Kieran Breheny, Strategic Development Manager at Dynautics
Follow OS&T

Kieran Breheny, Strategic Development Manager at Dynautics, explains the team’s involvement in the design and supply of the Vessel Control System (VCS), as well as the development of custom CAN communication firmware to provide precise control of the drive system.

This technology was made for RC Dock Engineering’s workboat catamaran, which is capable of remotely controlled unmanned operations such as offshore surveying and subsea inspection, maintenance and repair.

Unmanned Catamaran Receives VCS & Custom Firmware


Dynautics provides Vessel Control System (VCS) and autopilot technology that seamlessly integrates into third party drive and motor control systems. We work closely with USV manufacturers to ensure that onboard control systems and their complex integration protocols are robust, efficient and above all provide optimal functionality and redundancy.

Netherlands-based RC Dock Engineering enlisted Dynautics for the remote control of a 12m catamaran vessel, the first of 20 new remotely controlled unmanned workboats developed by the company, with azimuth thrusters and twin water jets.

As well as designing the Vessel Control System (VCS), Dynautics also advised on overall system architecture, design and the purchase of ancillary parts. We developed custom CAN communication firmware to provide precise control of the drive system and collision avoidance software was optimized with radar partners Simrad and Cambridge Pixel.

The catamaran has since been granted RINA class approval. These automated vessels are able to conduct remotely controlled unmanned operations in areas such as offshore survey and subsea inspection, maintenance and repair.

With RC Dock Engineering’s new hull design, transmission and power management arrangement, agility and collaboration were key on this project. Teamwork and strong partnerships are hard-wired into Dynautics’ culture and this was a great example of those values at work.

Visit the Dynautics website for more information.

To learn more, contact Dynautics: Visit Website Send Message View Supplier Profile
Posted by Dynautics Connect & Contact