Institutional Project FESB

About the Project

ATASYS

Advanced Technologies for Autonomous Systems

The objective of the project is to develop an integrated autonomous system (AS) optimized for operation under demanding conditions. The project includes the selection of an existing system that can be adapted to the available research infrastructure, along with its technical analysis and subsequent upgrade. A key aspect of the development is the implementation of a hybrid power system based on a combination of fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries, including an analysis of mass distribution, cooling strategies, and operating regimes.

The methodology involves non-dimensional analysis, as well as experimental and numerical investigations conducted in both wind tunnel and hydrodynamic environments, complemented by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The mechanical and thermal properties of the hull are optimized using response surface methods and iterative approaches. In parallel, algorithms for visual perception and autonomous control are being developed to achieve stable motion and real-time environmental recognition.

The expected contributions of the project include the development of a functional prototype, an increase in scientific output, knowledge transfer to industry and education, and the strengthening of research and development capacities for autonomous systems in the Republic of Croatia.

Goals

Project Goals

Main Project Goals:

1. Development of an innovative autonomous system with hybrid propulsion for marine applications (Strategic goal: Strengthening cooperation with industry)

• Integration of a hybrid power supply system (WP4)

• Optimization of aerodynamic and hydrodynamic characteristics (WP3, WP6)

• Development of an autonomous control system (WP7)

2. Enhancement of scientific capacity through interdisciplinary research (Strategic goal: Increasing scientific excellence)

• Application of CFD analysis and experimental methods (WP3, WP4)

• Development of new numerical models (WP3.3, WP4.2)

• Publication of results in Q1/Q2 journals (WP8.1)

3. Promotion of green transition in the maritime sector (Strategic goal: Strengthening social responsibility)

• Implementation of hydrogen fuel cells (WP4.1)

• Reduction of emissions through the use of alternative fuels (WP4.3)

• Environmental impact assessment (WP5.2, WP6.1)

Specific project objectives according to the Objectives Catalogue:

1. Promotion of applied research (WP2.2, WP8.3)

2. Improvement of research infrastructure (WP3.2, WP5.1)

3. Popularization of science (WP8.2)

Additional (institutional) objectives:

1. Development of a functional prototype (WP5.3, WP6.3)

2. Development of an industry partnership network (WP8.3)

3. Increased competitiveness in EU projects (WP8.1)

Work Packages

WP1

Management and Coordination

This work package covers technical and administrative project management, team coordination, timeline maintenance, and resource management. Regular meetings and transparent document sharing are conducted, while the project leader oversees performance and financial aspects. Performance monitoring includes progress reports on technical implementation and budget, with data used for continuous improvement. Risk management is carried out through a dynamic register, focusing on technical and administrative risks.

WP2

Review, Analysis, and Selection of the Initial System

Existing autonomous technologies for aerial and underwater applications are analyzed, with a focus on integration and technical specifications, particularly within the EU. The goal is to select a system suitable for testing and upgrading and to assess its compatibility with the institution’s infrastructure. The selected system is described in detail and defined as the baseline model for further development.

WP3

Non-dimensional Analysis and Aerodynamic Modeling

Non-dimensional analysis (Reynolds and Mach numbers) and the development of a physical model for wind tunnel testing will be carried out. Experimental investigations include drag and lift measurements, while CFD simulations are conducted in parallel for validation and optimization of hull geometry. Turbulent fluctuations are analyzed, and response surface optimization methods are applied.

WP4

Hybrid Power Systems

Different power sources are analyzed, including hydrogen fuel cells and alternative fuels, supported by a feasibility study. CFD models are used to analyze heat transfer and determine the optimal power system. Mathematical models are developed to simulate hybrid system operation and optimize performance under dynamic conditions.

WP5

Mechanical Properties

A prototype of the autonomous system is developed using 3D printing, and the mechanical properties of materials are tested. Corrosion resistance and recyclability are analyzed. Critical points are mapped using thermography, and components are tested under various load conditions.

WP6

Marine Application and Hydrodynamics

Standards and regulations for autonomous vessels are analyzed, along with a comparative study of existing solutions. CFD simulations and/or experimental testing are used to determine hydrodynamic properties. The hull is manufactured from composite materials and tested under real-world conditions.

Project Team

Project Leader: doc. dr. sc. Željko Penga,

doc. dr. sc. Željko Penga,

Project Leader

Petra Bagavac

Researcher

Milan Ćurković

Researcher

Alen Grebo

Researcher

Mišo Jurčević

Researcher

Branko Klarin

Researcher

Lovre Krstulović-Opara

Researcher

Igor Pehnec

Researcher

Milan Perkušić

Researcher

Tonći Piršić

Researcher

Stipe Pleština

Researcher

Gojmir Radica

Researcher

Jakov Šimunović

Researcher

Ivan Tolj

Researcher

Branko Blagojević

Researcher

Boris Ljubenkov

Researcher

Endri Garafulić

Researcher

Daniela Matić

Researcher

Contact

For all enquiries related to the ATASYS project, please contact the project leader:

doc. dr. sc. Željko Penga Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture University of Split Ruđera Boškovića 32, 21000 Split, Croatia

E-mail: Zeljko.Penga@fesb.hr