Client Name: Zetica
Summary of the Project
Unique Group, in collaboration with Zetica Ltd, successfully gathered bathymetry and sidescan data using the Uni-Mini USV at Queen Pool, Blenheim Palace. The objective was to assess Uni-Mini’s capabilities in shallow waters, navigating challenging conditions while maintaining high data accuracy. Despite obstacles such as limited visibility and complex terrain, the USV performed exceptionally, showcasing its maneuverability, autonomous operations, and strong communication links.
Client Requirement
Zetica Ltd wanted a demonstration of the Uni-Mini USV’s capabilities in acquiring bathymetry and side scan sonar data. The client’s goal was to evaluate the USV’s performance in mapping the Queen Pool, an irregularly shaped lake with depths ranging from 0.5m to 3.5m.
Challenges Faced
The primary challenges encountered included navigating in very shallow water and maintaining control in areas where the Uni-Mini USV was out of direct sight, such as behind the island and near Vanbrugh’s Grand Bridge. These obstacles were successfully managed using the vessel’s highly manoeuvrable differential thrust steering and remote monitoring via camera feed and sidescan sonar.
Unique Solution Delivered
Unique Group deployed its Uni-Mini USV equipped with a Ping DSP 3DSS-iDX-450-Pro, integrated with SBG Ekinox Inertial Navigation and Motion Reference. The system acquired high-resolution sidescan and bathymetry data in a single pass, particularly suited for the shallow water environment.
The USV was initially operated manually along the perimeter using its onboard camera and live sidescan display before switching to autonomous mode for full coverage of the pond, with survey lines plotted in the autopilot software to cover the rest of the pond, which the USV followed autonomously. The Ping DSP’s OpenCPN plugin provided real-time data visualization, which enabled the addition of any infill lines where required in the shallowest areas, ensuring comprehensive survey coverage.
The Uni-Mini performed well with its highly maneuverable differential thrust steering, enabling it to access right into the corners of the lake. When running the autopilot survey lines, there was little to do except observe the USV and the data coming in. Communications links were strong and stable with no dropouts, even when operating behind the small island where visual line of sight was briefly lost.
Benefits Delivered
- Efficient Data Collection: The Uni-Mini delivered high-quality bathymetric and sidescan data with wide swath coverage, reducing survey time.
- Autonomous & Precise Navigation: The USV’s autopilot function ensured seamless data acquisition with minimal operator intervention.
- Operational Reliability: Strong and stable communication links maintained uninterrupted data flow, even in visually obstructed areas.
Client Feedback
Zetica commented,” Zetica was impressed with the performance and versatility of the Uni-Mini system during its deployment on their first site. Zetica is looking forward to incorporating the Uni-Mini into a wider range of upcoming projects.”
Client Name: Zetica
