IIT-M researchers develop unmanned, solar-powered craft to survey ports

The autonomous survey craft, developed by a research team at the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways, and Coasts (NTCPWC) in IIT-M, could be equipped with an echo sounder, GPS system, and broadband communication technology. It is also possible to add additional oceanographic payloads (current and velocity measurements), 360-degree camera, LiDAR for seamless topography and bathymetry measurements, a statement from the institute said. The craft had a successful field-test recently off the Chennai coast at Kamarajar Port. Further trials under harsher environments have been scheduled this month at Syama Prasad Mookerjee (SMP) Port, Kolkata.

The researchers are already in the process of commercialising the technology with the help of Union Shipping Ministry, which funded the project, and the Incubation Cell at IIT-M.

Prof K Murali, professor in-charge, NTCPWC, said: “The craft is capable of delivering precise and accurate depth measurements even in very shallow waters. This autonomous survey craft will help meet the increasing demands for volume and efficiency as ships are becoming larger, with maximum loading to ensure the most efficient operations.”

According to him, the craft can undertake autonomous hydrography surveys at different times of the day to identify the navigable paths. It can survey ports, harbours, waterways, dams, lakes, lagoons and other shallow water zones. The craft can be operated in manual mode by a remote-control or as a fully autonomous vehicle, and can endure five to several more hours, he added.

In can help address challenges encountered by the port administrators like surveys slowing down traffic and even causing accidents, vessels to survey shallow areas and the high cost for periodical channel surveys.