Summary of the Project
Unique Group recently completed a detailed bathymetric survey within Cairns Marina for Tailored Spatial Solutions using the Uni-Mini Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) fitted with a NORBIT Subsea Multibeam system to generate underwater profiles and produce a 3D point cloud, digital terrain model (DTM), and contour maps.
Client Requirement
The client wanted to conduct a bathymetry survey at the Cairns Marina to confirm the location of two recently installed buoys in the area, in addition to gathering data to provide contours and a digital terrain model. The client, TSS, opted for a USV as they needed a quick and efficient solution since traditional vessels could not be used in that area.
Challenges Faced
- Performing the survey in a high-traffic area without disrupting marina operations
- The survey needed to be performed in an area where traditional manned vessels could not be used.
Unique Solution Delivered
Unique Group deployed our compact and fully electric Uni-Mini USV, equipped with the Norbit subsea multibeam system. The Uni-Mini enabled the team to safely and efficiently capture high-resolution data in shallow, high-traffic areas without disrupting marina operations or relying on traditional manned vessels. Using Norbit Multibeam, we generated precise data and detailed underwater profiles, producing a 3D point cloud, digital terrain model (DTM), and contour maps.
Our experienced Coxswain supported the client onsite, and all operations were done safely, efficiently, and remotely.
Benefits Delivered
- High-Precision Data: Enabled precise and reliable bathymetric data collection in a zone inaccessible to other survey platforms.
- Delivered Operational Efficiency: Reduced operational costs and environmental disruption by avoiding the use of fuel-based vessels.
- End to End Project Management: Complete technical support and planning was done by Unique Group in close collaboration with the client.
- Ultra-Shallow Draft & Compact Size: The Uni-Mini can operate in water depths where manned vessels would be at risk of grounding. Thus, the USV showcased superior performance compared to conventional survey boats in shallow environments.
Client Feedback
Craig Genga, Director and Chief Remote Pilot at Tailored Spatial Solutions, commented, “Unique Group’s Uni-Mini USV fitted with a NORBIT Multibeam system allowed us to collect high-resolution data in areas that were previously inaccessible using traditional survey vessels. Despite operating in a high-traffic environment, the entire operation was carried out remotely, efficiently, and without disruption to marina activities. The project was executed seamlessly thanks to the professionalism and technical expertise of the Unique Group team, and the results far exceeded our expectations.”
