Period: 1.11.2020 - 4.5.2024

Content: Applied research of remotely operated, automated and autonomous systems is a
globally important area for developmental work and innovation. While Finland
has significant research in this field, vital infrastructures for testing
implementations of said research results are still largely missing. One of the
main reasons for this is that test infrastructures are mostly too expensive for
individual companies to invest in on their own.
Applied Research Platform for Autonomous Systems (ARPA) is a joint RDI
initiative of Novia University of Applied Sciences and Turku University of
Applied Sciences (TUAS). The project will create an ambitious new platform for
applied research on autonomous systems, one that enables different operators'
concrete RDI work on smart operating environments.

Competitiveness and internationalization through a joint research platform

The ARPA project combines several fields of expertise from Novia and TUAS:
• Aboa Mare simulators
• AVR Center
• Artificial intelligence
• Cyber Security Lab
• Engine and Powertrain Laboratory
• Wireless connectivity and 5G.

Both UAS hold strong track records in applied research in these development
areas through extensive investments, existing networks and collaboration,
ongoing national and international RDI projects as well as received
recognitions. The ARPA project involves experts and students of both UAS,
industrial partners, SMEs, start-ups, authorities, research communities and
international networks.

The project is implemented in six interlinked work packages:
• Maritime logistics and smart manufacturing platform,
• Smart Connectivity,
• Simulators and digital twin design,
• Data platform and AI test facility,
• Visualization and user interfaces and
• Open data and agreements.

Led by higher education institutions, the project will enable the collection of
data collected from tests and applied research without skewing the competitive
situation the field. Systematically collected, analyzed, and stored data
benefits industry development and research by making processed and visualized
research data available to all. Development and testing in the same research
environments ensures comparability of results and provides consistent
information to developers, researchers and authorities alike. At the same time,
the project supports the competitiveness of local businesses and opens
opportunities for international markets.

Focus area: Fartygssimulation

Campus: Åbo Aboa Mare

Financers: The Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture

Project owner: Turku University of Applied Sciences

Project manager: Mikael Manngård

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