Innovative Underwater Exploration: Cellula Robotics’ Solus-LR
Cellula Robotics Ltd. has marked a significant milestone by successfully conducting presentation missions with its Solus-LR, an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) powered by hydrogen fuel cells.
Groundbreaking Missions in Vancouver
These missions took place in July 2022 within the Indian Arm inlet of Vancouver, showcasing the autonomous deployment of a micro-AUV from the Solus-LR while it was submerged and in motion.
After its launch, the micro-AUV surfaced and sent a status update back to Solus-LR’s command center using Iridium satellite technology. Cellula Robotics claims this operation is unprecedented, highlighting the capability for near real-time, over-the-horizon dialog from a submerged AUV.
Notable Observers and Strategic partnerships
The demonstration attracted attention from various representatives, including those from Trusted Autonomous Systems (TAS), the Royal Australian Navy, the Royal Canadian Navy, Defense Research Development Canada (DRDC), and the Defence Science & technology Group (DSTG australia). george Chow, the Minister of State for Trade in Vancouver-Fraserview, was also present, underscoring the importance of Cellula’s collaboration with TAS’ SeaWolf program.
Advancements in AUV Technology
The mission builds on a research initiative initially funded by DRDC under the All Domain Situational Awareness (ADSA) Science and Technology (S&T) program, which lead to the development of Solus-LR. This mission reinforced the capabilities of a long-range, hydrogen fuel cell-powered AUV, designed for submerged operations exceeding 2,000 kilometers.
“We were thoroughly impressed by the performance of these innovative technologies, especially the hydrogen fuel cell, during the sea trials,” stated Professor Jason Scholz, CEO of TAS.“This power source offers a viable alternative to conventional diesel, battery-only, and nuclear propulsion systems. Cellula Robotics continues to excel in the SeaWolf program, supported by our numerous Australian partners in the consortium. We are committed to further developing this capability for defence applications.”
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