Berlin, July 29 – In an effort to combat increasing road congestion in Berlin, researchers from the Technical University (TU) Berlin are exploring innovative solutions by reactivating the city’s waterways for urban logistics. The A-Swarm II project, led by the Chair of “Design and Operation of Maritime Systems,” is developing autonomous electric watercraft designed to transport packages via the Spree, Landwehr Canal, and other aquatic routes.
Autonomous Watercraft for ‘Last Mile’ Deliveries
The core concept behind the A-Swarm II project is not to transfer all delivery traffic to water, but to provide significant relief, especially for the ‘last mile’ of package delivery. Gerd Holbach, head of the department, explained, “The idea is not to move all delivery traffic onto the water. But waterways can provide real relief, especially for the last mile.”
The system envisions packages being loaded into containers on the watercraft, similar to those used for cargo bikes. These containers would then be transported by boat from a distribution center located outside the city to a transshipment point. From there, delivery personnel would take over and deliver the packages to their final recipients using cargo bikes or small electric trucks.
Modular Design and Autonomous Operations
The watercraft feature a modular design, enabling them to form and separate from convoys. This modularity is crucial for energy efficiency on longer routes, as a larger vessel can push a convoy of smaller ones. As the convoy approaches their respective destination areas, the individual vessels can uncouple and proceed under their own power.
This technical capability presents significant challenges. The vessels must communicate seamlessly, align precisely for coupling, and then autonomously establish and release connections. A magnetic coupling system is being developed for this purpose. Holbach emphasized the complexity: “In traditional inland navigation, someone uses a rope to attach to a bollard. With A-Swarm II, this process must function automatically. This applies not only to driving but also to coupling, uncoupling, energy management, and the safe handling of cargo.”
Ultimately, the goal is for loading and unloading to also occur autonomously. Researchers believe that an autonomous shipping system is only truly efficient if transshipment processes also operate without manual intervention. Their concept includes a station housed within a 20-foot standard container, offering the flexibility to easily relocate if a site proves unsuitable or needs to be repurposed.
Beyond Packages: Diverse Cargo and Energy Management
Beyond package delivery, TU Berlin is also investigating the feasibility of transporting other goods, such as beverages, food, or waste, using these autonomous watercraft. Given that the boats are electrically powered, energy supply is another critical aspect of the project. Researchers are exploring whether it is more practical to establish a charging infrastructure or to design the boats to operate for an entire day on a single battery charge.
A robust monitoring platform is essential for such a system. This platform would track the location and status of the watercraft, determine their operational readiness, manage order acceptance, and identify maintenance or charging needs.
Current Testing and Historical Context
The initial watercraft prototypes are currently undergoing testing in Berlin’s Westhafen harbor. These tests focus on enabling the vessels to navigate autonomously, avoid obstacles, and perform coupling maneuvers.
The idea of utilizing Berlin’s waterways for transport is not new. Historically, the city’s canal network was a vital artery for delivering building materials, food, coal, scrap metal, and waste. Gerd Holbach noted, “Berlin was supplied by water for decades.” The A-Swarm II project aims to build upon this legacy, with Holbach stating, “With A-Swarm II, we are researching how this existing infrastructure can be reactivated for modern, low-emission urban logistics.”
The project seeks to leverage Berlin’s extensive network of waterways to create a sustainable and efficient urban logistics system, reducing reliance on road transport and contributing to a greener urban environment.
Source: https://www.heise.de/en/news/TU-Berlin-tested-autonomous-package-boats-for-Berlin-11381020.html
