MATS 2021

Through this theme we are seeking presentations from Scientific, Industry, Government and Defence end-users of marine technologies. Presentations should focus on current and aspirational application of MAS, highlighting what the user requirement is. Presentations that set stretching challenges, outlining those challenges for aspirational applications will be scored highly. We will seek to take a balanced approach between current and aspirational activities to ensure MATS includes forward looking ideas as well as ground-breaking examples of actual activity.

Generating information that meets end-user needs from the data collected by MAS is the ultimate goal of deploying the system. This theme will explore novel methods of generating information products from MAS gathered data. Presentations should explore (but not be limited to) the utility of Machine Learning & AI, Data Processing, GUIs and augmented realities. Examples of real world information use should be explored

Operation of MAS in the environment is just part of the mission and the work to enable it happens outside of the operational element. This theme is seeking presentations that support the planning and control of MAS. Presentations can include (but not be limited to) experiences and lessons learned from field trials, the use of Synthetic Environments, Mathematical Modelling, Simulation, Assurance, Safety, Risk and Reliability Management, Command and Control, Remote Operations/Remote Operation Centres, Fleet Management & Maintenance, Collaborative behaviour, Monitoring, Regulation and Legal. Through this theme we’re also encouraging presentations around testing and evaluation centres, sites and infrastructure, that provide the proving grounds for technologies.

Sensing technologies are the eyes, ears, nose and touch of the Marine Autonomous System. This theme will focus on those novel, innovative and emerging technologies that enable MAS to collect data for the end-user, through imagery, physical sampling or chemical and biological detection. Presentations should provide real examples of field collected data as well as look to the future of data collection. We are also seeking presentations that cover interaction with the environment and infrastructure.

Through this theme, we are seeking presentations that focus on the systems. Through increased intelligence, operations have evolved from single platform to more of a system approach. Operations are no longer limited to one or two vehicles deployed from a ship, but can be run in autonomous fleets and utilising technologies such as digital twins. Presentations are sought that include, but are not limited to, end to end systems, navigation, networking, collaboration and cooperation, residency, launch and recovery and novel vehicles including a forward look to future vehicle technologies. We’re also encouraging presentations that look at the roles of cyber technologies and digital twins in operations. Presentations should demonstrate how step changes in MAS technology deliver improved performance through real examples of in field operation, be that with a single platform or a fleet of platforms working to achieve the users goals.