BRIDGE Technology: An Architecture Framework Enabling Smarter Control

What is BRIDGE Technology?

BRIDGE is an architecture framework that combines hardware and software to facilitate the expansion of capabilities and enable seamless communication between the ROV (remotely operated vehicle), its controller, and 3rd party sensors and tools.

Essentially, it is "bridging" the software controls to the physical ROV, enabling seamless communication and enhanced functionality - hence the name, BRIDGE.

In today's rapidly evolving tech landscape, the integration of innovative solutions is critical for improving operations across various industries. Deep Trekker has taken its proprietary BRIDGE architecture a step further and developed a groundbreaking advancement with the new BRIDGE.box, transforming the way ROVs are controlled and monitored.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the functionalities of BRIDGE technology and its real-world applications in diverse scenarios.

The expanded technical answer to “What is BRIDGE technology?” is somewhat more complex, much like asking, "What is the internet"?

It is not simply one easily defined “thing”, but rather, it encompasses many things.

Let’s break it down a bit further.

This framework includes hardware, such as BRIDGE.box and custom inputs to communicate between the controller and robots; algorithms that improve functionalities, such as ensuring low latency communication with the robots, allowing for real-time controls with virtually no input lag; and, our BRIDGE.app software application that enhances the operational capabilities of Deep Trekker vehicles.

Key Features of BRIDGE Technology

Responsive Controls: Advanced algorithms enable near-instant communication between the controller and the vehicle.

Precise Stabilization: Ensures reliable camera stability and vehicle station holding in rough water.

Enhanced Viewing and Recording: Improved camera and recording capabilities.

Modular Design: Supports direct hardware and software integrations with third party equipment and devices.

Remote Connectivity: Allows for remote control piloting and remote monitoring.

Robot Autonomy: Supports autonomous navigation and station holding, creating an easy and reliable piloting experience.

Adaptability and Customization

The adaptable nature of BRIDGE architecture allows it to be tailored to meet the specific requirements of various systems, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance no matter your setup; and, its modular design allows for the integration of other 3rd party hardware and applications, enabling customization based on operational needs.

Interoperability and Portability

The system's interoperability is another key feature, and supports effective data sharing with other systems, promoting efficient and cohesive operation within a broader technological ecosystem; and, portability ensures it can be easily implemented across different platforms, enhancing flexibility.

What is BRIDGE.box and How Does It Integrate with BRIDGE.app?

The integration of BRIDGE.box with Deep Trekker ROVs represents a significant advancement in remote vehicle operation and data management. It enables remote operation from Windows devices and supports real-time monitoring across multiple screens, offering a versatile solution for diverse underwater missions. BRIDGE.box is designed to deliver flexible control options, whether you're operating from a truck, office, laptop, tablet, or console.

Want to use a gamepad-style controller? No problem. Want six monitors in a shipping container? You got it. Set up your dream office while using a flexible software platform that will grow with your needs.

For customers who want further customization, such as white labeling capabilities, we can provide your team the tools to take over control of the ROV through your own platforms. Access our API here.

Key Features of BRIDGE.box and BRIDGE.app

• Remote operation from Windows devices
• Real-time monitoring
• Multi-monitor support
• Enhanced video streaming quality over the Deep Trekker Handheld Controller
• Media playback capability
• Picture-in-picture mode (including auxiliary cameras)
• Increased topside flexibility and comfort
• Support for virtually any controller (yes, even Guitar Hero, technically)
• Compatibility with Windows apps (Screenshare, Viewpoint, etc.)

Remote Operation

BRIDGE.box allows operators to control Deep Trekker ROVs from any location using a Windows device. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for teams spread across different geographic locations or for those needing to access ROVs in challenging environments.

Real-Time Monitoring

The framework supports real-time data monitoring on multiple screens, providing a comprehensive view of ongoing missions, enhancing situational awareness, and enabling quick decision-making. With real-time monitoring, you can track the ROVs status, view live video feeds, and access critical data from sensors and other integrated systems simultaneously.

Higher Quality Images and Video

Not only can you enjoy higher resolution displays on multiple monitors, BRIDGE also improves Deep Trekker’s enhanced 4K camera with proprietary image processing algorithms for a premium experience, including auto color correction, image dewarping, improved clarity, upgraded low light performance, and boosted sharpness to enhance your 3D model generation capabilities.

Media Playback

Record video, take snapshots, and capture vehicle telemetry data into .CSV and .JSON files. Full video and image playback in app, along with file management, enables users to verify recording quality and ensure correctness without having to change devices or programs.

Integrated Data Capture

Seamlessly capture data from various sources. Integrated data sources such as maps, sonar, and video feeds can be simultaneously displayed with picture-in-picture functionality, enabling more informed decision-making during operations. You also have the ability to drag and drop custom text elements on top of the UI to be captured in recordings, and add auxiliary cameras to the display.

Customizable Controls

Operators can map input controls on joysticks, keyboards, or gamepads to suit their specific workflow requirements. This customization ensures that users can optimize their control setup for total flexibility and comfort. While we encourage innovation and experimentation, we do advise against using unconventional devices like Guitar Hero controllers. However, the option is there if you feel inclined to explore.

Third Party Windows Apps Integration

Enables the use of Windows features alongside the app, such as Screen Share for sharing your screen in real-time, and Viewpoint for managing different perspectives or views, as well as compatibility with a wide range of other third-party applications.

Choosing the Right Controller Setup for Your Needs

Selecting the optimal controller setup is essential for aligning with your operational needs. Whether you prioritize mobility for rapid deployment or require robust functionality for detailed analysis, making an informed choice will significantly improve your underwater operations.

By carefully evaluating your specific requirements and considering factors such as portability, control customization, and data integration capabilities, you can maximize the performance and reliability of your underwater ROV. This thoughtful approach will not only boost your operational capabilities but also contribute to overall mission success and safety.

Handheld Devices

Handheld devices, such as the Deep Trekker tablet (shown below) or specialized controllers, offer portability and ease of use. They are ideal for quick, on-the-go operations but might lack the comprehensive functionality of more permanent setups.

Benefits: Highly portable; Touchscreen interface; Quick setup and operation.
Challenges: Limited processing power; Limited by battery life; Smaller screen size.

Laptop or Desktop Computers

Laptops and office desktops provide a balanced solution, offering more processing power and screen real estate for complex missions. They are suitable for detailed data analysis and long-duration operations.

Laptops

Benefits: Portability with added functionality; Adequate processing power for most missions.
Challenges: Less stable than permanent setups; Battery life limitations.

Office Desktops

Benefits: High processing power; Large screen size for detailed monitoring.
Challenges: Limited mobility; Requires a stable power source.

Fixed Topside Console Station and BRIDGE.console

For operations requiring continuous and intensive use, permanent console installations are the best option. These setups provide maximum stability and integration capabilities, making them ideal for extensive ship hull inspections or long-term environmental monitoring projects. BRIDGE can be easily integrated into existing control stations without the need to overhaul expensive or complex setups.

Deep Trekker has also updated their Control Console with a redesigned layout and new features and integrations, making it more robust and practical than ever before. The new BRIDGE.console now comes with a weatherproof case, large screen in lid, integrated keyboard, HDMI, USBs, and ethernet ports, as well as an integrated BRIDGE.box and Direct Power topside box. These integrations mean more functionality and less loose objects and cables during setup, optimizing operations.

Benefits: Maximum stability and integration; Ideal for long-term and intensive operations.
Challenges: Lack of mobility; Higher setup and maintenance costs.

Key Takeaways and Insights

BRIDGE.box, integrated with Deep Trekker ROVs, presents a versatile and technically advanced solution for a wide range of underwater missions.

The platform enables sophisticated customization of controls, allowing for precise adjustments for varying operational scenarios.

Operators benefit from seamless remote operation capabilities, leveraging advanced protocols for efficient data transmission and real-time monitoring across multiple screens.

The system's inherent portability enhances its adaptability to diverse environmental conditions, ensuring consistent performance and operational readiness.

By mastering these features, operators can harness the full potential of BRIDGE technology to achieve optimized mission outcomes with notably improved operational effectiveness.

Encouraging Innovation

Ultimately, this framework allows different hardware and software to work together easily, empowering developers to incorporate new features, plug-ins, or enhancements without causing things to break. The customizable nature of the system encourages innovation and growth, allowing for future advancements to be implemented without conflict, keeping the framework relevant to current cutting-edge technology.

Custom Solutions for Your Underwater Operations

Our experienced team is here to provide expert guidance for a diverse range of applications. Whether you need to inspect vessels, pipelines, underwater assets, or water tanks, or conduct underwater assessments across different industries, we are ready to assist you.

We ensure tailor-made solutions that precisely match your specific requirements. When you're prepared to acquire your Deep Trekker ROV, don't hesitate to get in touch with us for a personalized quote.