Autonomous Vessel Design for Efficient Marine Debris Collection: A MATLAB Simulink and Arduino-Based Approach

Abstract

The growing threat that marine pollution poses to human health and biodiversity requires innovative responses. This study aims to create autonomous, unmanned vessels for collecting marine debris to prevent the negative effects of marine litter, especially plastics and industrial waste. The study uses MATLAB Simulink for dynamic modeling, simulating how the ship interacts with different debris and maritime settings. The effectiveness of advanced control systems that combine feedforward and feedback controls is evaluated regarding debris collection and pathfinding. The methodology of this study involves the design and simulation of the vessel’s hydrodynamic behavior, control systems, and debris interaction mechanisms. A scaled-down prototype has been built, integrating elements like a double-propeller hull, Arduino-driven control mechanisms, and a debris-gathering system. The prototype’s efficiency in gathering debris and mobility is demonstrated by real-world testing conducted in controlled situations. According to the results, the integration of modern control systems has been found to greatly improve the vessel’s debris collection efficiency. How the prototype functions in different situations demonstrates its ability to serve as a scalable solution for marine pollution. The result of this study emphasizes the possibility of automated, unmanned marine debris collection vessels as an environmentally friendly way to reduce marine pollution. The effective prototype testing, modeling, and simulation bring up new avenues for research and development in this area, which benefits the preservation of marine ecosystems.