Reygar launches control system for USVs working in offshore wind

Reygar has launched an integrated autopilot and mission planning system for unmanned survey vessels (USVs) working in the offshore wind industry.

The V-PILOT will provide autopilot technology, mission planning and full navigation data monitoring tools to support the next generation of survey vessels, Reygar said.

The system uses an embedded vessel controller and a shore-side user interface to connect to existing GPS, thrusters, steering and associated command systems.

According to the company, the technology can be used for small and large unmanned vessels for both inshore and coastal survey and inspection operations.

V-PILOT combines comprehensive mission planning features with autonomous mission following, and flexible survey payload interface capabilities. It consists of an embedded controller on the vessel and a shoreside user interface.

The technology has been tried and tested on HydroSurv’s unmanned vessel pilot project, funded by Innovate UK.

“It is of vital importance that as offshore wind expands into greater depths and distances from shore, maritime technology remains a step ahead of any new challenges,” said Chris Huxley-Reynard, managing director at Reygar.

“Our pilot project with HydroSurv has shown what innovation can do to improve the cost, safety, and reliability of offshore wind surveying and we look forward to expanding our V-PILOT offering to meet the needs of this ever-evolving market.”