Seafuture 2023: L3Harris showcases its IVER4 900 AUV: Autonomous Underwater Vehicle.

The company L3Harris proudly showcased the Iver4 900 AUV at the Seafuture 2023 event. With its impressive capabilities and reliable performance, it offers users a versatile and efficient solution for underwater exploration and data collection.

IVER4 900 Autonomous Underwater Vehicle on the L3Harris booth. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

One of the standout features of the Iver4 900 is its long-duration capability. Equipped with rechargeable NiMH battery packs, it can support up to 20 hours of continuous operation and cover a mission duration of 40 nautical miles.

For even longer missions, the AUV can be outfitted with Li-Ion battery packs, offering an extended run time of up to 40 hours and a mission duration of 80 nautical miles. The exact run time and mission duration depend on factors such as payload and current conditions.

In terms of physical specifications, the Iver4 900 boasts a length of 2.5 meters and a carbon fiber tube with a diameter of 9 inches. With a weight of less than 230 lbs, it is designed to be compact and lightweight, enabling easy deployment and maneuverability underwater. Its depth rating of 300 meters ensures that it can operate effectively in various underwater environments.

The AUV's propulsion system utilizes a brushless DC motor and a three-blade stainless steel propeller, enabling it to achieve speeds of over 3 knots during transit and over 5 knots during sprints. This allows for efficient navigation and swift movement underwater.

To facilitate communication and data transfer, the Iver4 900 features multiple communication options. It supports wireless 802.11n for surface communication, Iridium (SBD) for long-range communication, and acoustic communications for underwater communication.

For navigation, the AUV relies on a combination of GPS (with WAAS correction) for surface navigation and a Nortek Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) and an Inertial Navigation System (INS) based on iXBlue PHINS Compact C3 fiber-optic gyroscope for subsurface navigation. This combination ensures accurate positioning and precise movement control.

The AUV comes equipped with advanced software tools to assist users in mission planning, data viewing, and analysis. The VectorMap software enables efficient mission planning and data visualization, while the Sonar Mosaic feature creates detailed images of sidescan records and generates KMZ files compatible with Google Earth. The Underwater Vehicle Console (UVC) provides an intuitive interface for operating the AUV and executing missions remotely.

In terms of safety and durability, the Iver4 900 is designed with robust features. It includes a rugged transit case with shock-absorbent mounting, ensuring secure transportation. Safety systems such as a drop weight and Watchdog Iridium safety systems are also incorporated for added security during operations.