Ship hull inspection with a 3D scanner

UVision makes it possible to inspect ship hulls whilst in the water

Inspecting a ship’s hull and other underwater components, such as the propeller and rudder, is vital to ensure the vessel’s structural integrity and efficiency. Over time, biofouling—when marine organisms such as algae, barnacles, and mussels attach to the hull—can accumulate, increasing drag and reducing fuel efficiency. If left unchecked, biofouling can also lead to hull damage and corrosion, compromising the vessel’s safety and performance. Without regular ship hull inspection and maintenance, these issues may go unnoticed until significant damage occurs, leading to costly repairs, operational inefficiencies, or even incidents.

2 people using a 3D scanner to perform offshore wind turbine inspection of the foundation

Hull status transparency

A 3D model of the hull and underwater components offers significant benefits by providing a detailed and transparent overview of the vessel’s condition. This model can highlight areas requiring maintenance and assist in decision-making for timely interventions. Using UVision’s UScanner on an ROV, ship hull inspections can be carried out regularly and efficiently, ensuring the vessel remains in optimal condition and reducing the risks of operational disruptions.

Automatic detection of sacrificial anodes

Automatic detection of sacrificial anodes using object recognition in 3D models significantly streamlines the inspection process. By leveraging advanced image recognition algorithms, the system can identify and highlight the location of sacrificial anodes without manual input. This automated approach allows for faster, more accurate assessments, eliminating human error and ensuring that any degradation or need for replacement is promptly detected. With object recognition, the review process becomes more efficient, as inspectors can easily track the anodes’ status in real-time, ensuring the vessel’s protection against corrosion is consistently maintained.

Ship hull inspection with AI anode detection

Why Use a Visual 3D Scanner for Ship Hull Inspection?

Close-up view of a scanned object, revealing the millimetre precision

Photorealistic Detailing

Visual 3D models capture the intricate details of underwater structures in high resolution, providing a comprehensive view that aids in identifying defects or damage with unparalleled clarity. This photorealistic detailing ensures no critical issues are overlooked.

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Millimeter Precision

These models offer precise measurements up to the millimeter, enabling accurate assessments of structural integrity and wear. This level of precision is crucial for planning maintenance, repairs, and ensuring the long-term safety and efficiency of offshore wind turbines.

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Cost-Effective Monitoring

With the ability to generate detailed and accurate models quickly, visual 3D scanning reduces the need for frequent diver deployments, cutting down on inspection costs and time. This efficiency makes it a cost-effective solution for ongoing infrastructure monitoring.

UVision 3D Underwater scanner for offshore wind turbine inspections

Underwater 3D Scanner

Starting at €13.900 ex.VAT

The UVision 3D Scanner is a cutting-edge device that seamlessly combines high-quality still images and positioning data for efficient point cloud generation and photogrammetry.

The global shutter stereo camera captures all pixels at the same moment – as opposed to rolling shutter which reads pixels sequentially – securing the most accurate image is captured. The dome ports minimise distortion at the periphery of the field of view, maximising image quality.

The device is small and light giving it various mounting options. The aluminum casing is corrosion resistant and designed for 300m depth. 

Mounting Flexibility

The scanner is small and light, giving various mounting possibilities depending on the needs of the job

ROV Mounted

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The scanner can be mounted and easily integrated to any ROV and even smaller ROVs. It can function as a main camera or used as an additional sensor.

Pole Mounted

Operator holding a pole with the UVision 3D underwater scanner mounted on the end. The scanner can be handheld as in the photo, mounted to an ROV, or used on the end of a pole.

For inspections close to the water side the scanner can be simply mounted on a pole with its own lights and power supply. It can also be used in combination with a Virtual Reality (VR) headset!

Handheld

Diver holding the UVision 3D underwater scanner. The scanner can be handheld as in the photo, mounted to an ROV, or used on the end of a pole.

A diver can document their inspection using the scanner by hand. We can provide different grips depending on preferences.

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