Banner graphic with a work boat in the port.

Autonomous inspection boat

Precise depth measurements with igus® components

Art Robotics is a Belgian tech start-up active in the fields of robotics, IoT and AI. For its client "Port of Antwerp-Bruges", the company was commissioned to create the system for an autonomous inspection boat called "Echodrone". This should be able to carry out a variety of depth measurements to ensure safe passage for shipping. It is a self-propelled system that can navigate to the desired inspection sites. You can find out about the special features and challenges of this order in this application report.

Profile

What was needed: DC motor and data cable
Requirements: An autonomous inspection boat requires components that are resilient and maintenance-free. The products must also be able to withstand the harsh conditions in the harbour.
Industry: Boats
Success for the customer: Our DC motors offer a reliable solution that is also particularly space-saving without a motor flange and coupling. The fully shielded chainflex® data cable can also withstand extreme trade show conditions.

More application examples

Sensor component in an Echodrone application with connected cables.

Products used

Motor with a cylindrical housing and shaft.

Direct-current motor with planetary gear

chainflex CF112 cable for cable carriers with visible twisted conductors.

CF112 data cable

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Problem

A special system was required for precise depth measurement. A sound velocity profiler (SVP) had to be positioned close to the seabed. As the Echodrone is an unmanned vessel, an additional system is required to automatically bring the sensor to the exact depth target and retrieve it again. The Art Robotics team was to accompany the entire development process from the concept to the finished system.

The inspection boat should also be designed to withstand all the climatic conditions it is exposed to in the harbour. This also includes the ability to manoeuvre in adverse weather conditions. Tasks should be carried out autonomously, including navigating the harbour area and collecting and transmitting information. A reliable and secure communication link is therefore very much in demand.

Solution

With the help of igus® components, Art Robotics developed a customised solution for the use of the Echodrone in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. This solution consists of high-quality chainflex® cables and the drylin® E DC motor. The developed system enables automatic depth measurements, fast positioning of the sound velocity profiler and remote configuration via a special software application. The modular design also enables quick and easy disassembly of the components for maintenance purposes.

The chainflex® data cables from igus® are flexible and robust and ensure a reliable power supply for the Echodrone during operation. They protect the cables from external influences such as dirt or moisture, thereby preventing possible failures or damage. The drylin® E DC motor used has a Protect protective housing and has protection class IP41. This makes it more resistant to external influences and also protects it from vertical dripping water. Together, these components contribute to a precise system and can withstand the demanding requirements of the harbour.

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