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INT(EN)
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 customer “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-driving system that can navigate to desired inspection locations. You can read about the special features and challenges of this order in this application report.

Profile

  • What was needed: DC motor and data cables
  • Requirements: An autonomous inspection boat requires components that are robust and maintenance-free. Furthermore, the products must withstand the harsh conditions in the port.
  • Industry: Boats
  • Success for the customer: Our DC motors offer a reliable solution that is particularly space-saving without a motor flange and coupling. The fully shielded chainflex® data cables can also withstand extreme conditions.
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Problem

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

The inspection boat should also be designed to withstand all climatic conditions to which it is exposed in the harbour. This includes the ability to move in adverse weather conditions. Tasks should be performed independently, including navigating the port area and collecting and transmitting information. A reliable and secure communication link is therefore in great demand.

Solution

With the help of igus® components, Art Robotics developed a tailor-made solution for the use of the Echodrone in the "Port of Antwerp-Bruges". This solution consists, a.o., of high-quality chainflex® cables and the drylin® E DC motor. The developed system enables automatic execution of depth measurements, rapid positioning of the sound velocity profiler and remote configuration via a special software application. The modular design also allows components to be quickly and easily dismantled for maintenance purposes.

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

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The terms "Apiro", "AutoChain", "CFRIP", "chainflex", "chainge", "chains for cranes", "ConProtect", "cradle-chain", "CTD", "drygear", "drylin", "dryspin", "dry-tech", "dryway", "easy chain", "e-chain", "e-chain systems", "e-ketten", "e-kettensysteme", "e-loop", "energy chain", "energy chain systems", "enjoyneering", "e-skin", "e-spool", "fixflex", "flizz", "i.Cee", "ibow", "igear", "iglidur", "igubal", "igumid", "igus", "igus improves what moves", "igus:bike", "igusGO", "igutex", "iguverse", "iguversum", "kineKIT", "kopla", "manus", "motion plastics", "motion polymers", "motionary", "plastics for longer life", "print2mold", "Rawbot", "RBTX", "readycable", "readychain", "ReBeL", "ReCyycle", "reguse", "robolink", "Rohbot", "savfe", "speedigus", "superwise", "take the dryway", "tribofilament", "triflex", "twisterchain", "when it moves, igus improves", "xirodur", "xiros" and "yes" are legally protected trademarks of the igus® GmbH/ Cologne in the Federal Republic of Germany and where applicable in some foreign countries. This is a non-exhaustive list of trademarks (e.g. pending trademark applications or registered trademarks) of igus GmbH or affiliated companies of igus in Germany, the European Union, the USA and/or other countries or jurisdictions.

igus® GmbH points out that it does not sell any products of the companies Allen Bradley, B&R, Baumüller, Beckhoff, Lahr, Control Techniques, Danaher Motion, ELAU, FAGOR, FANUC, Festo, Heidenhain, Jetter, Lenze, LinMot, LTi DRiVES, Mitsubishi, NUM,Parker, Bosch Rexroth, SEW, Siemens, Stöber and all other drive manufacturers mention on this website. The products offered by igus® are those of igus® GmbH