IIT Madras Researchers Create Solar Powered Survey Crafts For Waterways; Check Details Here

A team of researchers in IIT Madras has created an unmanned survey craft. The craft will be powered by solar power and will be used for inland waterways and Indian ports. This system has been created at the National technological Center for Ports, Waterways, and Coasts. 

A statement released by IIT Madras stated that the system comes with the capabilities of precise depth measurements. The craft is capable of demonstrating such precision-based abilities even in shallow waters.

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The statement further said that the system will help provide real-time data over long distances and will help with surveys of oceans and seafloor. This would also make the whole process autonomous, saving much more time and delivering more efficient results.

As for features, the system is capable of being fitted with a GPS system, echo sounder, and broadband tech which helps it function and deliver precise depth measurements. The team demonstrated the capabilities of the craft and proved its point by giving a demo at Kamarajar Port in Chennai. 

The researchers who developed this technology, have already started the commercialization of the system. They are being aided in this venture by the incubation cell at IIT Madras and the Ministry of Shipping, Government of India.

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The professor in charge of NTC PWC, IIT Madras Mr. K Murali said that this craft would have a major impact on autonomous surveys. According to him, this represents a significant leap towards the increased capabilities of the Indian maritime sector, which is currently filled with foreign players. 

Since the craft is usable in both shallow and deep water, it can be used in a lot of situations. This system would help meet the ever-increasing demands of greater efficiency and volumes in shipping. 

The system is scheduled for further tests and trials before it could be commercialized. The team plans to test it out in even harsher environments of SMP port in Kolkata. The trials are supposed to be held in November itself and further talks for commercialization will move forward once they are done. 

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