Antwerp tests 3D sonar sensors for unmanned shipping January 7, 2021, by Naida Hakirevic The University of Antwerp (UAntwerp) and the Port of Antwerp have been jointly testing 3D sonar sensors — innovative technology for autonomous inland shipping. At CoSys-Lab, a research group in UAntwerp’s Faculty of Applied Engineering, Prof. Jan Steckel develops advanced sensor systems that can withstand harsh conditions. “In order to achieve fully autonomous navigation, constant monitoring of the ship’s surroundings is absolutely crucial,” according to Steckel. “Cameras can be used, of course, but when visibility is poor – due to dust, water sprays, mud, smoke or fog – they don’t work properly.”