HydroSurv has trusted Dynautics for over 6 years to provide robust autopilot control systems for their range of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). This video, about the battery-electric REAV-25 USV, demonstrates how the collaboration has more recently resulted in the development of updated autopilot control technology to reliably drive a rim-driven thruster vessel, designed to operate in shallow, littoral environments where control and reliability are crucial.
Rim-driven thruster designs have advanced significantly over the past two decades, with new models giving powerful leverage and high torque at lower speeds than conventional motors. The hubless design of the impellers also minimises friction, which improves efficiency and reduces noise for electrically propelled boats. The REAV-25 offers exceptional durability, precision and flexibility for operation within inland waters, ports and harbours, and nearshore shoreline environments.
As with all our projects, we placed a strong emphasis use of simulation and testing, using Dynautics Ship Sim, as an integral part of our development process, so that the new autopilot control system was thoroughly trialled prior to delivery to HydroSurv. The solution, originally designed for HydroSurv’s REAV-47 USV, dovetailed into HydroSurv’s existing systems, giving the team a clear development and delivery path to install the technology on future vessels, including the compact REAV-25, which was developed to align with MGN 702 MiniMASS Code.
