HydroSurv and UWE Bristol partner on AI predictive maintenance for maritime autonomy
HydroSurv has secured funding through Innovate UK’s BridgeAI programme to develop advanced predictive maintenance solutions for USV battery systems. The six-month feasibility study, conducted in partnership with the University of the West of England Bristol (UWE), builds upon successful trials of a rules-based fault detection system tested on a REAV-60 vessel earlier this year.
The project focuses on enhancing battery performance monitoring for HydroSurv’s next generation of powertrains, with initial development centered on the 12kWh lithium battery modules installed in the company’s new REAV-47 USV. Using artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, the system will detect early warning signs of potential battery issues before they impact vessel operations.
For commercial USV operators, battery reliability and longevity significantly influence total ownership costs. This initiative directly addresses these challenges by developing sophisticated AI models that can predict and prevent battery degradation, helping to maximise vessel uptime and reduce maintenance costs.
“Our customers understandably want to protect their investment, and the lifecycle cost of a vessel can be significantly impacted by the reduced lifespan of complex lithium batteries,” said David Hull, Founder and CEO of HydroSurv. “By collaborating with experts from the University of the West of England, we’re charting a clear roadmap for the adoption of advanced technologies that lower ownership costs and enhance uptime and availability of critical vessel assets – delivering measurable value to our clients.”
The University of the West of England brings significant expertise in AI and systems engineering to this collaboration. As one of the UK’s leading technical universities, UWE has a strong track record in developing practical engineering solutions through industry partnerships. The University’s School of Engineering has extensive experience in both maritime technology and artificial intelligence applications, making them an ideal partner for this innovative project.
