LORELEI-X

The recently updated Smart Specialisation Strategy of Cyprus highlights ‘drones and robots for inspections and repairs’ as well as the ‘design of small zero-emission vessels’ as areas where investments shall be directed and collaborations developed by Cypriot research organisations. At their crossroad, the topic of long-endurance robotic technologies applied to search and rescue (SAR) applications over large areas requires attention, especially for Cyprus, a southeastern Mediterranean nation whose economy largely depends on shipping and where the numbers of marine casualties and incidents signify a pressing challenge for maritime safety, biodiversity preservation and economic development.

LORELEI-X aims at boosting the progress of the coordinating partner – CMMI, a H2020 Teaming Centre of excellence in marine and maritime research– towards scientific excellence and innovation leadership in marine robotics by deploying efficient and long-term capacity-building and networking activities with NTNU from Norway and DTU from Denmark whose reputations and track records are international. Beyond scientific skills, the activities will also reinforce administrative, dissemination, and innovation management competencies. CMMI will also benefit from connecting with the innovation ecosystems of DTU and NTNU that allow students, researchers, and faculty to quickly bootstrap entrepreneurial initiatives through start-up incubators.

The R&I component will address structural vessel design, autonomous launch and recovery of marine vehicles, dynamic motion model calculation, fault-tolerant propulsion system and COLREGs informed, cyber-resilient marine navigation. It will result in the joint proof-of-concept and validation of a high-potential carrier marine vessel at TRL 5, capable of autonomously launching and recovering a small fleet of micro-Unmanned Underwater Vessels.

Over 36 months, LORELEI-X will result in enhanced reputation, attractivity and skills for CMMI and its staff.