The CSIR develops a prototype for fast, reliable underwater communication

The CSIR has developed a prototype technology for an advanced wideband ultrasonic transducer that enables unmanned underwater vehicles and sensors to communicate with surface vessels wirelessly at a bit rate of over 200 kbps.

The increased use of unmanned underwater vehicles that use a communication cable that, among others, limits the maneuverability of the vehicle, has highlighted the need for an innovation that enables large, high-speed data transfer over shorter distances.

The broadband acoustic underwater data communication system allows for large data rates and reliable near-real-time data transmission from an unmanned underwater vehicle to a surface vessel.

Currently, commercial underwater acoustic systems offer low data rate transmissions mainly for control signals and allow for sensor telemetry data transfers from significant depths and over large distances.

Introducing a real-time wireless innovation enables the naval and maritime industries to use unmanned underwater vehicles more effectively, as data can be continuously monitored to pilot such vehicles towards the desired location. The transmission of data in real-time requires a high data transmission rate, and this is only possible through a broader system bandwidth.

Application areas of this technology include an array of military uses, oceanographic research, underwater mining, and the oil and gas industry. The CSIR is interested to hear from entities with an interest to develop commercial applications around this technology.

Please contact CSIR Impact Area Manager Jeremy Wallis [email protected] for more information.