Our technical team answer your most Frequently Asked Questions:
How does the vessel technology work?
Through all wave directions the vessel is propelled forward by four keel mounted foils positioned fore and aft. In flat calm, the system can be assisted by an auxiliary propeller.
Extensive hydrodynamic testing has refined the technology and field trials and missions have proven its robustness in stormy seas.
When was it first released? How many years has it been on market?
In 2013 MOST(AV) Ltd was formed to develop the AutoNaut USV and has been marketing the AutoNaut ever since then. The company changed its name to AutoNaut Ltd in July 2016, following investment from Seiche Group.
What kind of mechanism has applied in order to maintain stability of the fleet under rough sea conditions?
The AutoNaut is designed to be self-righting and resilient in storm conditions and has survived 65kt storm conditions with 10m waves, capsizing and righting 4 times and successfully continuing with the mission.
Does it have a 24h monitoring function and if so what kind?
AutoNaut is set a pre-programmed course and monitored by 'operators/pilots' during missions. These trained remote operators oversee incoming data and are able to adjust the mission if necessary, monitor the health of the onboard systems and have remote control of onboard functions.
What are the annual maintenance costs?
The planned maintenance costs are very low, with a requirement to clean the hull of fouling between missions and ensure that all systems and equipment are operating effectively.
Does the AutoNaut have a control system server for each vehicle to save users from having to worry about building such a server themselves?
The control system software link with the Iridium satellite comms system can be mounted on a server of choice, or we can offer that service if required. The GUI for piloting the AutoNaut will run on any laptop/PC with an internet connection.
How many hours of charging by solar is required for 24 hour operation?
The 3m AutoNaut has 175W peak output from the solar PV panels on deck whilst the 5m has 300W peak output. The actual output depends on the latitude of operations, the season and the weather.
In winter months the remote pilot can balance the available battery power with the system load if necessary by turning sensors/equipment ON/OFF from remote depending on their priority for data gathering.
We can provide guidance on the load balance with power generation when sensor fit and mission location are confirmed.