Meet the Otter USV by Maritime Robotics

The Otter USV from Maritime Robotics is a compact, electric-powered unmanned surface vehicle designed for hydrographic surveys in lakes, rivers, canals, harbours, and other environments. With best-in-class endurance, rapid deployment, and compatibility with industry-standard sensors, the Otter is a trusted workhorse for professionals in marine science, defense, and infrastructure monitoring.

With a footprint of just 2 x 1.08 meters and a base weight of around 65 kg, the Otter can be deployed by a single person and transported in a standard vehicle. Its robust pontoons, durable polyethylene construction, and modular frame system make it ideal for harsh conditions and remote deployments.

The Otter is powered by up to four high-performance lithium-ion batteries and driven by dual Torqeedo Ultralight 403 motors. The system operates between 28–33 VDC and can run for up to 20 hours at 2 knots with a typical multibeam sonar payload onboard.

Operations are managed through the Vehicle Control Station (VCS)—a user-friendly graphical interface running on a ruggedized laptop or Android tablet. From real-time mission monitoring and remote control to waypoint tracking, station-keeping, and payload management, the VCS makes autonomous operations simple and efficient.

Assembly is tool-free and intuitive. The pontoons are secured to the main frame using quick-release ring nuts, while payload modules such as sonar, cameras, or water quality sensors attach via dedicated mounts. Cables connect in a daisy-chained configuration—OBS to Targa, to Winch (if installed), to Payload—using rugged Souriau connectors with visual and tactile confirmation of proper mating.

The Otter supports multiple communication pathways:

• Ubiquiti broadband radio for up to 2 km range (line-of-sight)

• WiFi hotspot for near-field setup

• 4G LTE connectivity with optional VPN for full remote access

  
  

These redundant links ensure reliable control and telemetry, whether you are in the field or managing from afar.

Whether you are mapping seafloors or monitoring water quality, the Otter can be tailored to your needs. It supports a range of payloads, including:

• Multibeam and single beam sonars (e.g., NORBIT iWBMS, Ping DSP, Kongsberg EM2040)

• Sub-bottom profilers 

• Water quality sondes 

• Environmental cameras, hyperspectral imaging, and LIDAR

• SVP profilers and automated winches (AML-3)

  
  

All payloads can be monitored and controlled through the onboard payload PC (an Intel NUC running Windows), accessible via secure remote desktop. Data is stored onboard and easily transferred via USB or through networked download tools.

Before launching the Otter, the following must be confirmed:

• All pontoons are locked and cables connected

• Motors spin freely and shafts are secure

• All connectors are sealed or capped

• Payload systems are powered and communicating

• The VCS is receiving GNSS position and heading

• AIS, camera, and SVP systems (if installed) are operational

• Safety zones and COLAV (collision avoidance) are enabled

  
  

Perform a control check using the VCS software or mobile app to verify that motors respond as expected. Ensure the mission is loaded and ready before proceeding to water.

Operators can engage different mission modes including Manual, Waypoint, Station-Keeping, and AutoLine using VCS.

During operations, the VCS displays live system data, including:

• GNSS position and heading

• Battery status

• Sensor feedback

• Sonar and bathymetric returns

• Vehicle health and telemetry

  
  

  

  
  

If the operator becomes inactive, a watchdog timer can trigger a safety stop (standby mode). Adjust this timeout in the VCS settings as needed.

The optional COLAV (Collision Avoidance) system based on LIDAR and camera data helps detect and navigate around obstacles in dynamic environments. Lights, cameras, AIS, and SVP winches are software-controlled for better situational awareness.

When operations are finished:

1. Use the STOP command in VCS to halt the vehicle

2. Retrieve the Otter using safe handling procedures

3. Power down batteries

Routine maintenance is simple: rinse with freshwater, clean and dry connectors, apply silicone spray before reconnection, and ensure all caps are fitted when ports are unused. The Otter’s systems are rugged, intuitive, and designed with field users in mind.

Integrated safety protocols, like magnetic battery activation and watchdog timeouts in the control software, protect both operators and equipment.

Why Choose the Otter USV?

• Modular payload compatibility

• Long endurance and fast charging

• Fully electric, low noise

• Seamless integration with leading sonar systems

• Backed by Maritime Robotics' proven engineering and support

  
  

Whether you are conducting a detailed multibeam bathymetric survey or collecting real-time water quality data, the Otter USV offers an efficient, autonomous platform that brings high-end capabilities to sheltered waters. Available for rent and sale at Seismic Asia Pacific, reach out to find out more.

Now available for hire or purchase at Seismic Asia Pacific. Contact us to find out more.