iXblue launches DriX USV

6th November 2017 - 16:30 GMT | by The Shephard News Team

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iXblue has launched a new multi-purpose unmanned surface vessel (USV) named DriX, designed for advanced sea operations.

Constructed out of composite material, DriX features a stablised hull optimised for both coastal and offshore missions. The hull design allows DriX to operate independently in hostile weathers and environments, with minimal hoisting manoeuvres.

DriX’s structure consists of a main body, a mast and a gondola bolted onto a drop keel. The payload is embedded in the gondola, and the gondola can be changed to suit different applications such as exploration, pre-site installation, touchdown monitoring, undersea inspection, Metocean, decommissioning, as well as environmental, geophysical, and hydrographic surveys. Should a change of payload occur, the electronic cabinets, housed in the main body, can be easily accessed and removed.

Data gathered by the payload can be transmitted through Wi-Fi or radio waves, or it can be retrieved manually through an on-board retrieval plug.

Powered by a single propeller that enables a top-speed of 15 knots, DriX is designed to offer up to seven days of endurance. The USV has multiple navigation options, such as autopilot, remote supervisor action, a follow-me function and a hovering mode.

The AUSV measures 7.7m in length and 0.7m in width, and has a draft of 2m.

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