Kyuden Drone Service, a subsidiary of Kyushu Electric Power, demonstrated a water-surface drone used to measure seabed depth at Kushikino Fishing Port in Ichikikushikino, Kagoshima Prefecture, on March 5. The catamaran-style drone, about 120 centimeters long and 93 centimeters wide, moves autonomously while collecting seabed data using onboard sonar. During the test, it measured depths of up to around 10 meters in parts of the harbor. Monitoring harbor depth is important because sediment buildup can restrict vessel access and require dredging. The company said using drones reduces accident risks compared with surveys conducted by crewed boats and can improve efficiency. The demonstration took place as part of a Kagoshima Prefecture initiative promoting the practical use of drone and robotics technology. Source: KTS News / Nikkei
Photo: KTS News
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