A flexible, multi-mode of operation, high-resolution survey platform for surface and underwater operations

Abstract

This paper describes the ROV LATIS , a multi-mode of operation flexible platform for high-resolution nearseabed survey from shallow inshore waters to depths beyond 1000m. The paper further describes the operation modes of the vehicle. Special system features include: deployment flexibility for both small inshore boats and larger research vessel; fault tolerant controls; onboard computer control enabling real-time disturbance reaction, autopilot functionality and autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) experimentation; and topside augmented reality operations support, simulation for remotely operated vehicle (ROV) pilot and sonar operator/hydrographer training. Vehicle and control development using the University of Limerick (UL) virtual underwater laboratory/simulation tools and hardwarein-the-loop testing is described. The paper includes test results from the March 2009 offshore sea trials with the ROV LATIS .

Novel Multi-Sonar Controller and Other Advanced Features Developed and Tested on Latis, a Smart, Remotely Operated Vehicle

“…ROV Latis (Fig. 3) is a multi-mode operation vehicle with many novel features [5,6]. It can be operated on the surface as a survey platform either towed (by an extra towing cable) or thrusted by four horizontal thrusters to allow surge, sway, and yaw, and is useful in confined spaces or near hazards where a boat and tow cannot operate.…”

“…The smart ROV Latis has many advanced features which include the following: (d) an integrated augmented reality environment and system control development environment, with a multi-purpose platform technologies (MPPT) ring; (e) an umbilical winch with power and eight singlemode optical fibre passes; (f) a design for an interchangeable winch system (inshore, 400 m; umbilical winch, 1000 m or greater). Because of space constraints the above advanced features are not described in detail in this paper but further information can be found in reference [5].…”

“…The vehicle was again deployed in June 2009 for further testing at Limerick Dock from a Shannon Foynes Port Company workboat the Shannon One. The benefits of the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) development approach using the MPPT ring tools [5] proved most worthwhile on this maiden voyage. The dock tests were originally scheduled 3 weeks before the ship-time maiden voyage.…”