Abstract:

The vastness of our oceans underscores an urgent need for exploration and the acquisition of pivotal data sets essential to our comprehensive understanding of the planet. This presentation delves into the interdisciplinary realm of maritime robotics and hydrobatics, while concurrently also extending its purview to the cosmos through partnerships in space robotics. We will talk about advancements in the science of nonlinear hydrodynamics and its instrumental role in new hydrobatics manoeuvres that stands out as a distinct discipline, emphasising intricate aquatic manoeuvres executed by underwater robots. These manoeuvres herald innovations in areas as diverse as deep-sea exploration and meticulous marine maintenance. By recognising and harnessing the synergies between the weightlessness experienced underwater and in space, we strive to augment the capabilities and flexibility of space robots, amplifying their scope for extraterrestrial endeavours. Complementarily, a significant facet of my research delves into pioneering concepts for electric hydrofoiling boats and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), which I will also talk briefly about.

Brief bio:

Ivan Stenius acquired an M.Sc. in Lightweight Structures from KTH in 2003 and a Doctor in Technology degree in 2009, specializing in hydroelasticity and fluid-structure interactions for high-speed craft. Presently, he's a full-time associate professor in the Department of Engineering Mechanics at KTH. Stenius's expertise encompasses multidisciplinary development of innovative maritime solutions, merging hydrodynamics, electric propulsion, robotics, and the dynamics of underactuated systems to create agile underwater robots and advanced hydrofoiling concepts. In recent years, he's been instrumental in advancing research in underwater technology and maritime robotics at KTH and currently serves as the PI for the Swedish Maritime Robotics Centre (SMaRC).