Bathymetry Survey Completed in Two Dams in 6 Days with Uni-Pact USV

Summary of the Project  

Unique Group performed a bathymetric survey for data collection using the Uni-Pact Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) for two dams in Kerala, India within six days.

Client Requirement

The client wanted to collect bathymetry data from two dams as part of a study for a Solar cell project. They contacted Unique Group with their survey requirement and preferred a quick and environmentally friendly solution. Our Unmanned Surface Vessel Uni-Pact was used for this project as it is easy to deploy in remote locations and gather high-quality data.

Challenges Faced

• The location of the dams was remote, and reaching the location was difficult. There was also high wind at one of the dam locations which had to be managed.
• It was difficult to deploy the USV without the use of any lifting crane, but Unique’s cradle design made it easy to deploy the USV.
• We had to carefully navigate the shallow depth along the boundary area of the dam.

Unique Solution Delivered  

The entire project was completed using the Uni-Pact USV which was fitted with a wideband multi-beam echosounder for hydrographic survey and the Valeport SVP with the USV winch. These were used to gather the required multibeam bathymetry data successfully, the data was collected mainly via autonomous mode. Manual mode was engaged for safety purposes when surveying near the dam boundary as it was very shallow depth. The entire project duration was a total of six days, three days for each dam. This was the most ideal solution for the survey as deploying other survey boats in the dam would have been difficult owing to the location and facilities available at the dam.

The client was pleased with the data collected and will be using the information gathered for the next steps of their project.

Benefits Delivered 

• Efficient way to complete the shallow depth bathymetry data collection.
• Reduced Project duration and cost effectiveness.
• Assured human safety as the survey was completed autonomously.
• Environment friendly: The Uni-Pact USV is a completely environmentally friendly solution, as it is operated on electric engines which make negligible noise, thus reducing disturbance to the aquatic ecosystem.

Client Testimonial

The Designers Consortium (client) was pleased with the results of the survey and commented: “The survey, which utilized Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) Uni-Pact with a wideband multibeam technology, was conducted meticulously to provide comprehensive insights into the hydrological characteristics of the dam areas. The hydrographic survey reports generated as a result of this project provide detailed information on bathymetry. We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to their team for their cooperation and support throughout the project. Their professionalism and dedication played a crucial role in the successful completion of the hydrographic survey.”