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SmartDive ROV with Positioning and Navigation Systems (USBL and LBL)
We equip our ROVs with underwater navigation and positioning systems. These systems help the ROV operator find their way underwater and complete tasks more efficiently.
With these systems, the ROV is shown on a map in real time, and its track (the path it has travelled) is recorded.
The most popular navigation systems are USBL (ultra-short baseline) and LBL (long baseline).
USBL systems
An ultra-short baseline (USBL) system determines the position of the ROV in real time. It uses an acoustic transceiver at the launch point (on a vessel, a pier, etc.) and a transponder beacon on the ROV. The system obtains relative coordinates and, after processing, displays the ROV on a map.
Such a system is sometimes called an “underwater GPS with a map”. Strictly speaking this is not correct, since GPS does not work underwater, but it sums up the idea well.
Maximum operating range: 300 m.
LBL systems
A long baseline (LBL) system also displays the ROV on a map. Unlike USBL, it requires at least four transceivers, usually seabed-mounted buoys. The ROV must stay within the defined area (for example, 500 × 500 m).
This system has stricter deployment requirements, since the buoys have to be installed, but it is usually more accurate than USBL.
Learn more about SmartDive ROV Navigation Systems
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