Page 51: of Marine Technology Magazine (March 2022)

dvanced Navigation, an AI navigation and ro- botics systems manufacturer, have launched Hy- drus, an autonomous subsea robot that combines advanced navigation, sonar and communication

A capabilities. This technology suite is combined with a 4K60 camera in an incredibly small form factor. Hydrus was designed with the notion to simplify underwater data col- lection and inspection at a price point lower than the industry norm. It is targeted at applications requiring high-resolution images and video with precise geo-referenced data.

‘’We have seen a revolution occur in the aerial drone market, where smaller, easy to use drones have opened new oppor- tunities in applications previously restricted by cost. Hydrus is intended to offer the same accessibility to the underwater world.’’ said Xavier Orr, Advanced Navigation’s CEO.

Hydrus is effectively an all-in-one surveying crew, allevi- ating the need for expensive ROVs/AUVs, survey vessels, highly trained operators and divers. Providing unparalleled ? exibility, ease of use, and affordability, Hydrus is the drone revolution, underwater.

As an all-in-one autonomous solution, 3D missions can be planned in minutes, without speci? c knowledge or training.

The acoustic communication capabilities allow users to moni- tor and adjust missions on the ? y.

Hydrus is small enough to be carried on a plane, and can be launched and retrieved by a single person. No special water- craft is required. Upon mission completion, data can be wire- lessly retrieved using a computer.

A 4K 60 fps camera coupled with a powerful lighting sys- tem ensures the highest quality video and photography. An

AI image processing system dynamically balances the camera and lighting system, and compensates for turbidity, even in the most challenging conditions.

Hydrus features advanced dynamic AI guidance with obsta- cle avoidance, altitude control and image quality control. It features a USBL, DVL, INS, acoustic and optical modems all tightly coupled into one integrated package.

Hydrus is designed to undertake missions of up to three hours duration, has a range of 9 km (2.5 miles), with a maximum speed of 9 km/h (5 knots) and a 3 km (10,000 ft) depth rating.

Proprietary hubless thrusters prevent impellers from getting jammed with ropes or seaweeds. The fully sealed, connector- less design makes for the most reliable and low-maintenance

AUV on the market.

Hydrus will be available in Q3 2022.

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