Royal3D has unveiled the ShearWater Aquatic Drone, a next-generation autonomous water drone aimed at maritime surveillance, data gathering and risk reduction, partly subsidized by the EU CrossRoads program. The prototype draws on Royal3D's design, engineering and 3D printing expertise, using infrared-camera-based control of layer adhesion during printing to optimize the drone for durability and performance in maritime conditions.
The drone's hull is built from specially developed thermoplastic polymers and PETG fiber-reinforced materials, chosen for strength, stiffness and weldability while remaining lightweight, watertight and impact-resistant; in line with Royal3D's sustainability goals, it is made entirely from recycled and recyclable materials. The company describes ShearWater's modular, parametric design as suited to companies looking to integrate autonomous systems into Royal3D's platform for maintenance, surveillance and other operational uses.
Source: www.royal3d.nl
