Deutsches Zentrum für Luft und Raumfahrt
German Aerospace Center
The German Aerospace Center (DLR) is the Federal Republic of Germany’s research centre for aeronautics and space and conducts research and development activities in the fields of aeronautics, space, energy, transport, security and digitalization.
DLR's maritime activities are focused on the challenges and opportunities associated with automation, digitalization, safety and security, as well as defossilization, related aspects for shipping and the maritime economy. Therefore, DLR uses its expertise to develop new technologies and solutions for these challenges. In doing so, DLR contributes to strengthening the position of Europe as a prime location for research and industry.
In the Waterborne Community, DLR contributes its expertise in the fields of maritime energy systems as well as automated and digitalized waterborne transport. Maritime energy systems research develops, optimizes and integrates systems for emission-free ship operations. This includes energy-saving propulsion systems, on-board generation of electricity, heating and cooling, high-performance fuel cells, optimized ship designs and safe on-board energy storage. It also deals with the distribution, bunkering and infrastructure for zero-emission fuels on board and in harbors as well as the development of transport concepts for alternative fuels. In the field of maritime automatization and digitalization, DLR works on technologies for collision avoidance, situational awareness and autonomous navigation. This also comprises the integration of artificial intelligence and sensor systems for decision-making in complex maritime environments, advanced simulation environments for testing automation technologies in maritime and inland waterways, digital solutions for efficient vessel traffic management, and research activities on improving safety and security for critical infrastructures and ports.
In Waterborne, the DLR is represented by its Institute of Maritime Technologies and Propulsion Systems. The DLR Institute of Maritime Technologies and Propulsion Systems develops, optimises and integrates systems for emission-free ship operations. This includes energy-saving propulsion systems, on-board generation of electricity, heating and cooling, high-performance fuel cells, optimised ship designs and safe on-board energy storage. It also deals with the distribution, bunkering and infrastructure for zero-emission fuels on board and in harbours as well as the development of transport concepts for alternative fuels.