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LBV200L2 - Detailed Information |
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The LBV was developed as a tool that offers the operator capabilities found in much larger ROVs, but in a more compact design. Key to the usefulness of a small ROV are such factors as Bollard thrust, small diameter umbilical, stable platform, flexible platform, high resolution video and broad range of options. Years of development, engineering, testing and feedback from clients have resulted in a superior MiniROV that has found success with more than 550 operators worldwide.
 Core System
The foundation of all LBV systems is the vehicle itself. Unique to the LBV is a configuration that comprises a front housing containing the main electronics, camera(s), internal lighting and sensors. From this housing a small conduit connects the rear power can which contains the power electronics. The power can is potted to the back plane which acts as a mounting point for the thrusters, flotation module, shells and bumper frame. Consider the main housing the head or brains, power can the heart, back plane the spinal cord and the thrusters are the limbs. This unique configuration offers intuitive serviceability.
Electronically the LBV200L2 is very sophisticated using proprietary electronics. There are multiple boards that each have their own purpose and the modular design aids in diagnostics and low cost repairs. Such electronics include the main Motherboard, RF/Data Modulator, Video Overlay, Sensor Board and Power Supply.
The LBV200L2 has a few enhancements over the LBV1502 series by adding a fiber optic video transmitter and SeaBotix own FSK electronics. Use of fiber optics for the video is to provide a crystal clear video signal over the added umbilical length. No need for a delicate fiber connector as the transmitter is potted in the umbilical. The FSK electronics provide an additional RS232 channel (115K baud rate) for options fitted that require RS232 communications, such as sonar.
To see a detailed list of Standard Features click here.
To learn more about the Evolution of the LBV click here.
 Powerful Thrusters
The LBV200L2 is fitted with SeaBotix own Brushless DC thrusters. There are four thrusters (two forward, one vertical and one lateral). Each thruster is identical and isolated not only from each other, but also the primary housing. Should one flood the others are unaffected. To reduce the risk of flooding each thruster is individually oil compensated.
Most impressive are the performance characteristics of the thrusters. Each thruster has a peak Bollard thrust of 4.5 kgf (9.9 ft/lbs) resulting in sufficient power to overcome current and umbilical drag. The thrusters use a Brushed DC motor that is electronically controlled to provide maximum thrust without damage to the motor.
 Adding to the performance characteristics is the thruster configuration. Using two forward thrusters for maximum pulling power and rotational control the LBV200L2 has no difficulty pulling its own umbilical and fighting current. Depth is controlled through the vertical thruster and making LBV stand apart from its competition is the implementation of the lateral thruster. This addition enables lateral motion which is particularly useful in inspections. Consider the control of the LBV much the same as that of a helicopter where you can hover and move freely. Without the lateral thruster your control would be more close to an airplane where you must fly by rather than hover.
To learn more about the Thrusters used on the LBV200L2 click here.
To learn more about the Performance of the LBV click here.
Sensors
The LBV200L2 is fitted with a variety of sensors to aid in navigation and control. These sensors are for reference and not designed to be ultra high accuracy. A heading sensor is installed to aid in navigation by displaying a numeric value on the Video Overlay. The heading also tracks number of rotations in 360 degrees to help the operator monitor number of turns in the umbilical. This feature helps to keep the umbilical from tangling easily.
Auto heading is standard on the LBV200L2. By simply pressing the key on the hand controller the LBV200L2 will maintain a steady heading.
There is a depth sensor fitted providing depth readings, again shown on the Video Overlay. The depth reading can be displayed in Metric or Imperial values as well as for Fresh or Sea water.
Auto Depth is standard on the LBV200L2. By simply pressing the key on the hand controller the LBV200L2 will maintain a set depth.
Also, there is a temperature sensor for external temperature readings.
All of the sensor data is displayed on the on-screen video overlay. This provides the operator with key information on-screen enabling operation without having to look away from the video screen.
To learn more about the Video Overlay click here.
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