Dynamical System-Based Imitation Learning and Neuroadaptive Control for Trajectory Recovery in Autonomous Ships

Abstract:Repetitive maritime operations can be effectively learned using the Imitation Learning (IL) paradigm, which transfers human expertise directly to Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) control systems. Dynamical Systems (DS) are widely used to model non-linear human demonstrations while offering inherent stability guarantees. However, real-world execution under persistent marine perturbations reveals a critical trade-off: standard DS-based IL approaches prioritize global target convergence at the expense of localized trajectory reproduction fidelity. To address this limitation, we present a hybrid learning-control architecture that integrates a DS-based IL reference generator with a neuroadaptive controller. Our approach introduces a control action that drives the USV back to the demonstrated path following exogenous disturbances, enabling dynamic human-like reactive alignment-termed behavioral tracking. The proposed methodology is validated using the Marine Systems Simulator (MSS) toolbox. Simulation results confirm that the framework generalizes complex maneuvering tasks while substantially improving trajectory tracking fidelity under disturbances compared to alternative control strategies.

Preprint submitted to journal (under review). 22 pages, 8 figures, 3 tables

Systems and Control (eess.SY); Robotics (cs.RO)

arXiv:2608.23924 [eess.SY]

(or arXiv:2608.23924v1 [eess.SY] for this version)

https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2608.23924 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite (pending registration)

arXivLabs is a framework that allows collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on our website.

Both individuals and organizations that work with arXivLabs have embraced and accepted our values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only works with partners that adhere to them.

Have an idea for a project that will add value for arXiv's community? Learn more about arXivLabs.