Introducing the Advanced SPRINT-Nav Mini Navigator for Autonomous Vehicles
Sonardyne has unveiled a cutting-edge addition to its SPRINT-Nav Mini series, specifically designed for unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). The latest Navigator model enhances the existing Guidance version by not only determining the position of autonomous or remote vehicles but also providing critical data on velocity, depth, and orientation.
Compact and efficient Navigation Solution
the SPRINT-Nav Mini is designed with a low-SWaP (size, weight, and power) profile, making it ideal for platforms that typically cannot accommodate advanced navigation systems. This includes observation-class remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), low-logistic autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and USVs that operate in shallow waters. Leveraging proven technology from Sonardyne’s SPRINT-Nav line, the Mini integrates an inertial navigation system (INS), an attitude and heading reference system (AHRS), a pressure sensor, and a 500 kHz Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) into a compact subsea housing measuring just 215 mm in height and 149 mm in diameter, weighing as little as 0.7 kg when submerged.
Robust Performance in Challenging Conditions
The SPRINT-Nav Mini excels in demanding environments, including areas with surface structures and locations where GNSS signals are unavailable. It delivers a continuous stream of latitude, longitude, orientation, velocity, depth, and altitude data at rates of up to 200 updates per second to the vehicle’s main control system. The system is available in two depth ratings: 300 meters and 4,000 meters, with a maximum DVL altitude capability of 200 meters. All SPRINT-Nav units come pre-calibrated from the factory, allowing for rapid and easy installation. Current users of SPRINT-Nav Minis can also upgrade their Guidance units to the new Navigator version remotely in the field.
Empowering maritime Operations
Aidan Thorn, the Business Development Manager for Marine Robotics at Sonardyne, stated: “This is a thrilling time for developers and operators of small ROVs, AUVs, and USVs.The SPRINT-Nav Mini Navigator represents a meaningful advancement, enabling safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly operations in maritime settings. The technology is low-risk and has been validated in the field. This flagship model allows vehicle manufacturers and operators to harness the advantages of Doppler inertial navigation through a single device. I appreciate its simplicity; one unit that is easy to integrate and operate, freeing up space and power for additional data collection tools. Ultimately, this leads to more capable vehicles for users.”
