Why is Motion Reference Unit used in ROV operations?
Motion Reference Units (MRUs) are essential components in Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) operations because they provide precise, real-time measurements of the vehicle's motion in all six degrees of freedom (Roll, Pitch, Yaw, Heave, Surge, Sway). This data is critical for accurate navigation, positioning, and control of the ROV in the dynamic subsea environment.
The high-accuracy motion data supplied by an MRU allows the ROV's control system to compensate for wave-induced motion and currents, ensuring stable flight paths and precise station-keeping. This stability is vital for tasks requiring fine control, such as manipulator operations, tool deployment, and close visual inspections. Furthermore, accurate motion compensation is crucial for acquiring high-quality data from onboard sensors like sonar and cameras during subsea surveys and mapping.
Norwegian Subsea offers the MRU Subsea, specifically designed for these demanding applications. Housed in a compact, robust titanium casing rated for 6000m water depth, it delivers exceptional accuracy (available up to ±0.01° Roll/Pitch). Its small footprint allows for easy integration onto space-constrained ROVs, and standard Subconn connectors and versatile communication protocols (Ethernet, RS-232/485, UDP, Modbus TCP) ensure seamless interfacing with existing ROV systems. Our MRUs are rigorously tested and validated, providing the reliability needed for critical subsea missions.
