Australia: 3d Velocity Sensors For Autonomous Systems

A new research collaboration between the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the industry has initiated the development of an advanced navigation sensor system capable of delivering exceptional accuracy in 3D velocity measurements. This initiative represents a substantial step forward in navigation sensor technology, specifically designed to optimise autonomous system performance across a variety of industries. By focusing on a compact, lightweight, and cost-effective solution, this technology aims to bring high precision to applications previously limited by size and weight constraints.

The project recently received over AU$1 million through the Australian government’s Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) Grants. This funding will support the development of a terrestrial-focused navigation system, which utilises laser-based technology to improve situational awareness for unmanned vehicles in various challenging environments.

Dubbed the Laser Unit for Navigational Aid (LUNA), this system promises to address complex navigational challenges across multiple sectors, including aerospace, automotive, and logistics. This technology is particularly valuable for vehicles operating in GPS-denied environments, offering enhanced autonomy for applications that demand high reliability and precision.

Central to this project is an emphasis on extensive real-world testing to ensure the system meets industry standards for both defence and commercial applications. The development will involve rigorous assessments across diverse environments, including applications in ground vehicles, drones, and light aircraft. By testing the sensor technology under these varied conditions, the project aims to validate the system’s reliability, versatility, and overall effectiveness, paving the way for broad adoption across autonomous systems in numerous fields.

The project is designed to integrate academic expertise in advanced sensor development and real-time data analysis. It includes methods rooted in nonlinear time series analysis, complex dynamics, and advanced physical computation, enabling the system to navigate complex environments while maintaining high performance. With this approach, the LUNA system is expected to significantly expand the capabilities of autonomous systems, supporting high-end unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other unmanned platforms that operate in complex and challenging terrains.

This navigation solution aims to address key autonomy challenges across various sectors. As industries increasingly adopt autonomous technologies that require precise spatial awareness, the demand for reliable, high-performance navigation systems is rising. This project focuses on developing technology for accurate three-dimensional motion tracking, even in GPS-denied environments. These capabilities will be particularly beneficial for mining, logistics, and defence, where autonomous systems operate in challenging terrains.

The partnership is also expected to play a critical role in building sovereign capability within Australia, particularly in the autonomous navigation technology sector. With this project, Australia takes a step toward strengthening its position as a global player in the high-end UAV market. The project contributes to national competitiveness by fostering the local development of advanced technologies, reducing reliance on imports for critical navigation technologies. By investing in homegrown research and development, Australia is working to secure its role as a leader in cutting-edge autonomous solutions.

A notable feature of this partnership is the infrastructure support that allows for enhanced research and development. Earlier this year, the project’s lead company established a high-tech robotics facility at the project’s main collaborating university’s technology lab. Located in New South Wales, this facility is dedicated to scaling up the production of navigation technologies for autonomous systems, particularly for environments where GPS access is restricted or unavailable. This setup enables streamlined testing, evaluation, and eventual deployment of the LUNA technology for real-world applications, supporting industries that require advanced, autonomous navigation solutions.

This collaboration demonstrates a commitment to advancing Australia’s technological capabilities in the global landscape. By fostering an environment where academia and industry can work closely together, the project aims to produce a commercially viable product that can redefine the standards for autonomous navigation.