Applied research of remotely operated, automated and autonomous systems is a globally important area for developmental work and innovation. While Finland has significant research in this field, vital infrastructures for testing implementations of said research results are still largely missing. One of the main reasons for this is that test infrastructures are mostly too expensive for individual companies to invest in on their own.

Applied Research Platform for Autonomous Systems (ARPA) is a joint RDI initiative of Turku University of Applied Sciences (TUAS) and Novia University of Applied Sciences. The project will create an ambitious new platform for applied research on autonomous systems, one that enables different operators' concrete RDI work on smart operating environments.

Competitiveness and internationalization through a joint research platform

The ARPA project combines several fields of expertise from TUAS and Novia: 
• Aboa Mare simulators 
• AVR Center 
• Artificial intelligence 
• Cyber Security Lab 
• Engine and Powertrain Laboratory 
• Wireless connectivity and 5G. 

Both UAS hold strong track records in applied research in these development areas through extensive investments, existing networks and collaboration, ongoing national and international RDI projects as well as received recognitions. The ARPA project involves experts and students of both UAS, industrial partners, SMEs, start-ups, authorities, research communities and international networks.

The project is implemented in six interlinked work packages:
•    Maritime logistics and smart manufacturing platform, 
•    Smart Connectivity, 
•    Simulators and digital twin design, 
•    Data platform and AI test facility, 
•    Visualization and user interfaces and 
•    Open data and agreements.

Led by higher education institutions, the project will enable the collection of data collected from tests and applied research without skewing the competitive situation the field. Systematically collected, analyzed, and stored data benefits industry development and research by making processed and visualized research data available to all.

Development and testing in the same research environments ensures comparability of results and provides consistent information to developers, researchers and authorities alike. At the same time, the project supports the competitiveness of local businesses and opens opportunities for international markets.