The introduction of SPRINT-Nav U is transforming the navigation capabilities of small robotic vehicles by providing survey grade sensors in the world’s smallest hybrid inertial acoustic navigator. SPRINT-Nav U delivers a high-precision and cost-effective solutions to address the unique challenges faced by compact platforms, such as small remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and towfish. This advanced navigation system combines a fibre optic gyro (FOG) based inertial measurement unit (IMU) with Sonardyne’s Syrinx DVL, aiding small robotic vehicles in environments where magnetic heading sensors may struggle, for example in and around ferrous environments.
SPRINT-Nav U is designed to provide reliable navigation and positioning in the GNSS denied subsea environment or in surface applications where GNSS is compromised and/or unreliable. By integrating high-accuracy IMU data with advanced sensor fusion algorithms, SPRINT-Nav U offers a robust navigation solution that creates a step change in the the operational performance and autonomy of small robotic platforms.
This presentation will explore the rigorous testing and trials that were conducted in bringing SPRINT-Nav U to market. These trials, carried out across a range of environments—from controlled lab settings to challenging field conditions—demonstrated the system’s ability to maintain heading accuracy and bottom track at altitude. The tests focused on real-world scenarios including in water testing in our dedicated trials and demonstration facilities in Plymouth, UK.
Furthermore, case studies will highlight the successful deployment of SPRINT-Nav U in a variety of small robotic vehicles, showcasing its capabilities in real-time navigation, mission execution, and system reliability. Examples include its use in a small ROV with Atlantas Marine’s VideoRay Defender for survey of a ferrous environment in a quarry, ecoSUBs small AUVs for scientific research, and a Sulmara towfish for marine surveying. These applications underscore how SPRINT-Nav U enhances operational efficiency, increases vehicle autonomy, and reduces operational risks, helping small marine autonomous platforms to deliver big performance – until now only available in larger platforms
