Precision Control for Underwater Inspections

We’re excited to announce the launch of the Distance Lock, a new add-on designed to bring even more precise control to ROV navigation. This innovative accessory provides operators with the ability to maintain consistent distance from a target, enhancing the accuracy of underwater inspections. With a focus on efficiency and ease, the Distance Lock offers an intuitive solution for tasks such as ship hull inspections, sea wall surveys, dam inspections, and longer marine operations.

What is the Distance Lock?

Distance lock 1m

The Distance Lock is a forward-facing proximity sensor designed to calculate the distance between the ROV and the target surface in front of it. This data is displayed in real-time on the user interface, allowing users to lock a fixed distance and automatically maintain that separation from the surface throughout the mission. The sensor offers users a new level of precision in underwater ROV navigation, making it particularly useful for tasks that require consistent distance over extended periods.

Performance Specifications

Operational Range: Maintains a fixed distance between 0.5 meters and 10 meters.
Depth Rating: Supports underwater inspections up to 300 meters deep, suitable for challenging conditions.
Detection Capabilities: Operates effectively on flat surfaces up to 45 degrees off-axis, offering versatility across various inspection scenarios.
Frequency: Built to operate at 500kHz CHIRP for consistent, reliable data in underwater environments.

Design Considerations

External Mounting: Compact and lightweight with minimal drag, ensuring seamless integration with ROV systems.
Fixed Orientation: Optimized for forward-facing use; not designed for mounting on rotating components or for multi-angle operation.

Distance lock close up zoom

Operational Advantages

Streamlined Deployment: Quick and straightforward integration with existing ROV systems, reducing setup time in field deployments.
Precision in Motion: Provides stable navigation, minimizing manual corrections during inspections and allowing operators to focus on critical mission objectives.
Durability and Reliability: Engineered for continuous operation in challenging underwater conditions, ensuring dependable performance during extended missions.

The Distance Lock is designed to address the specific challenges of underwater inspections, offering a solution that combines precision, reliability, and ease of use. Its advanced capabilities make it an indispensable tool for professionals conducting underwater inspections.

Key Features and Capabilities of the Distance Lock for ROV Navigation

Forward-Facing Proximity Sensor for Precise ROV Navigation: The Distance Lock is mounted to the front of the ROV and calculates the distance to relatively flat surfaces. This provides operators with a reliable method for ensuring a fixed distance from the inspected target, enabling precise movement during long inspections.

Real-Time Distance Readouts for Accurate Positioning: The sensor offers real-time distance readouts, displayed directly on the controller screen, allowing the operator to track changes in distance and adjust settings as needed. This feature provides constant monitoring of the ROVs positioning, ensuring accuracy during operations.

Distance lock Real-Time Distance Readout GIF

Automatic Distance Lock for Hands-Free Operation: The ability to lock the distance between the ROV and the target enables a hands-off approach to navigation. The operator can focus on other aspects of the mission, such as capturing high-quality imagery or monitoring ROV performance, while the sensor maintains the fixed distance.

Ideal for Long Surveys and Inspections: With its ability to maintain distance over extended periods, the Distance Lock is ideal for applications such as dam inspections, sea wall surveys, and other long-term tasks that require consistent distance control. The sensor provides operators with more stability, reducing the need for constant manual adjustments during lengthy operations.

Practical Applications of the Distance Lock for Underwater Inspections

The Distance Lock is designed with versatility in mind, making it suitable for a range of industries and inspection types.

Distance lock strafing sea wall GIF

The sensor's primary applications include:

Hydroelectric and Nuclear Inspections: The sensor simplifies the process of conducting structural inspections of hydroelectric dams and nuclear facilities. Operators can maintain a steady distance from walls and other structures, improving the efficiency and accuracy of these high-stakes inspections.

Sea Wall and Ship Hull Inspections: The Distance Lock is ideal for maritime applications such as sea wall and ship hull inspections. By maintaining a consistent distance from the surface, operators can ensure high-accuracy data collection over long distances, even in challenging environments. Though ship hulls may not be perfectly flat, the sensor can still provide valuable data for assessing the condition of submerged structures.

Civil Engineering and Infrastructure: For engineers and inspectors in the civil infrastructure sector, the Distance Lock enhances the precision of inspections of walls, dams, and other large-scale infrastructure projects.

Seamless Integration into Existing ROV Operations

The Distance Lock is designed to seamlessly integrate into the existing Deep Trekker REVOLUTION and PIVOT ROV platforms, providing a simple, intuitive addition to current systems. Operators can quickly adapt to the new functionality without requiring major modifications to their existing workflow. The sensor's easy installation and user-friendly interface make it a valuable tool for both seasoned and new operators alike.

Advancing ROV Navigation for Precision and Control

Distance lock strafing at dock GIF

The Distance Lock represents a significant advancement in ROV navigation technology, offering precise control and simplified mission planning for underwater inspections. By automating the distance maintenance process, the sensor reduces the workload for operators and enhances the accuracy of inspections across a variety of sectors, including hydroelectric, nuclear, civil engineering, maritime, and commercial diving operations.

With the launch of this accessory, Deep Trekker continues to lead the way in delivering high-performance ROV solutions that meet the evolving needs of industries requiring accurate, efficient, and reliable underwater operations.

Our experienced team is at your service to offer expert guidance for a range of applications and industries. We ensure tailor-made solutions that precisely match your specific requirements. When you're prepared to acquire your Deep Trekker ROV, don't hesitate to get in touch with us for a personalized quote.