SPECTRA

SPECTRA

The SPECTRA is Deep Trekker’s latest underwater drone, designed for inspection, repair, and maintenance in demanding offshore environments. The system combines the mobility of a compact ROV with the performance typically found on larger inspection platforms. With an operating depth of up to 1,000 meters, the drone can be used for inspections of offshore structures, ship hulls, risers, and other underwater infrastructure.

The design focused on stable operation in currents and simplifying inspection work. The SPECTRA uses a seven-thruster configuration that delivers a combined thrust of 40 kg. This allows the ROV to maintain position around structures and maneuver in a controlled manner, even when currents are blowing from different directions. Its maximum forward speed is four knots, allowing it to efficiently cover larger inspection areas.

Inspection and Image Capture

For visual inspections, the SPECTRA features an integrated stereo 4K camera system that can rotate to capture multiple angles of a structure. This allows operators to inspect above, below, and around objects without having to constantly move the entire ROV.

The camera system is supported by a powerful LED lighting frame with a total output of 300,000 lumens. The lighting automatically follows the camera’s position, ensuring the image remains usable for inspection and documentation even in dark or murky conditions.

The stereo camera also enables the use of imagery for photogrammetry. After an inspection, the images can be processed into detailed 3D models of underwater structures, providing additional insight into the condition of an asset.

Navigation and Spatial Awareness with SLAM

Underwater inspections often take place in environments where GPS is unavailable and visibility can be limited. Therefore, the SPECTRA uses real-time 3D sonar technology combined with SLAM. During a mission, a three-dimensional map of the surrounding area is built as the ROV moves.

This provides the operator with not only the camera image but also a live spatial model of the surrounding area. This aids navigation around complex structures and allows for repeat inspections along the same route. It also allows for better verification of whether an asset has been fully inspected before the operation is completed.

Designed for Practical Use

Besides performance, significant attention was paid to practicality. The SPECTRA has a modular design so that key components can be replaced relatively quickly (under 30 minutes). This simplifies field maintenance and helps minimize downtime during projects.

At the same time, operation remains similar to previous Deep Trekker platforms. This allows operators to quickly work with the system without complex topside hardware or extensive training.

Applications

The SPECTRA is primarily used for offshore inspections, such as inspecting platform structures, flowlines, and ship hulls. The combination of powerful propulsion, sensors, and real-time mapping also makes the system suitable for port inspections, search-and-recovery operations, and scientific surveys.

In environments where currents and limited visibility pose a challenge, the combination of camera, sonar, and SLAM helps to obtain a clear picture of the underwater situation and to carry out inspections efficiently.

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