Test Driving Marport’s Unmanned Underwater Vehicle
Last Thursday (October 22, 2009), Marport’s Underwater Robotics group successfully demonstrated the unique manoeuvring capabilities of the SQX-500 Unmanned Underwater Vehicle in the NRC-IOT test tank.
The hydro-dynamically stable UUV is designed for reliable performance and low life-cycle cost. The dual-pod design enables exceptional stability. Its rudders can rotate 360° and its propulsion system utilizes vector thrusters. As such, the vehicle can hover or transit laterally, vertically, forward, and reverse, enabling stealthy manoeuvres. Patents have already been filed on the unique propulsion and control system.
The first SQX-500 has been sold to an international offshore survey company for seabed survey applications. Marport is currently investigating a variety of scientific research and military applications for the vehicle.
The SQX-class of vehicles are being co-developed by Marport Canada, the NRC – Institute for Ocean Technology and Memorial University.
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