SMD has introduced its electric work-class remotely operated vehicle.
According to the company, its Quantum/EV ROV introduces electric drive technology to the subsea sector in an optimised, modular package which brings Work Class ROV performance and capability to a new level.
The Quantum/EV is SMD’s environmentally responsible solution designed around five key principles covering performance, reliability, flexibility, ease of use and compact form factor.
The prototype, showcased at this year’s Offshore Europe event, is equipped with a completely new 25kW high power electric thrust system, a new long-distance DC transmission solution and locally managed DC power system.
Quantum/EV has a 20% increase in performance and is twice as efficient when compared to current Work Class ROVs. The new platform also features advanced flight processing for super stability, battery compatibility for tetherless operations and is future proofed to accept AI command technology, SMD said.
SMD has been subjecting the newly-developed technologies and the new vehicle to a testing programme that will continue over the coming months.
First deliveries are expected to begin in 9-12 months.
Mark Collins, SMD’s director for Remote and Autonomous Technologies, stated: “We have really focused on developing a tool that can be relied upon to take operational efficiency to a new level that’s easy to own and use. The technology will support our client’s ambitions and is suitable for traditional vessel, unmanned vessel and resident applications. One of the novel things about the EV technology is its modular flexibility. We’ve created future-ready, component-based, modular architecture which can be extrapolated for different uses; easily transferred for use in AUVs and USVs.”
Stephen Wilson, SMD’s innovation manager, said: “We have been developing electric motors and ROV thrusters for over 20 years. As specialists in high power motor drive technology, our parent company, CRRC Tec, have given us access to high power systems technology that would be otherwise inaccessible to the subsea sector. All of this, combined with financial support from our parent and Innovate UK has put us in a unique position to bring a world class electric ROV system to the market.”