Ocean Autonomy Cluster is pleased to welcome Seabotics UiA as a new member. Based at the University of Agder in Grimstad, Seabotics UiA is a student association dedicated to the development of fully autonomous surface vessels. The team aims to design, develop, and build Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs) to compete in technology competitions such as the Njord Challenge and Autodrone. The project combines advanced technology, autonomy, and maritime innovation within a multidisciplinary engineering environment. Hands-on experience in maritime technology By applying mechatronics and cybernetics, the group provides students with hands-on experience in maritime technology and fosters innovation in areas such as computer vision, sensor fusion, CFD analysis of hulls, thruster control systems, and electronics. Through its cluster membership, Seabotics aims to gain networking opportunities, technical guidance, and exposure to real maritime environments. “We want our students to build knowledge and strengthen their projects by engaging directly with the industry,” says Julian Fiskaa Idsø, primary contact for Seabotics. In return, the association brings fresh ideas, research capacity, and strong motivation from its multidisciplinary student team. Hugr Primus – The first development project Hugr Primus marks the beginning of their journey. A development project built on the principle of complete transparency. Every aspect, from material choices to hardware and software, will be openly available to everyone. “Our goal is to inspire others, share our learnings, both successes and mistakes, and make it easier for others to build upon our work,” says Julian Fiskaa Idsø. The project in autonomous surface vessel development creates new opportunities for collaboration, testing, and knowledge sharing with established cluster members. The name Hugr originates from Old Norse and represents mind, will, and consciousness – the inner force that shapes how one feels, thinks, and acts. It’s a fitting name for their Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV), which continuously adapts, evolves, and makes thoughtful decisions based on its surroundings and past experiences. With Seabotics on board, Ocean Autonomy Cluster strengthens its connection to the next generation of maritime autonomy innovators. Seabotics UiA Team Mechanics For more information, visit seaboticsuia.com and follow Seabotics on LinkedIn.