Marine Magnetics

Applied Acoustics Pyxis INS + USBL

Marine Magnetics Synapse H-Grad horizontal transverse gradiometer for marine UXO detection

Use the following content to replace the existing Synapse text:

Applied Acoustics Pyxis INS + USBL is a fully integrated, inertially aided underwater positioning system designed for accurate, survey-grade subsea tracking. It combines Applied Acoustics’ Sigma 2 spread-spectrum acoustic technology with the high-precision SBG Systems Navsight Apogee Marine INS. The closely coupled, factory-calibrated system provides stable positioning while significantly reducing mobilisation and calibration time. Directional and omnidirectional transceiver options make Pyxis suitable for shallow-water, horizontal and long-range tracking operations.

Features & Benefits

  • Integrated INS + USBL – Closely coupled acoustic positioning and inertial navigation deliver accurate and stable subsea positions.

  • Rapid Mobilisation – Factory-calibrated configuration reduces installation and field calibration requirements.

  • Sigma 2 Spread-Spectrum Acoustics – Bidirectional digital acoustic communication provides reliable tracking and data telemetry.

  • Long-Range Performance – Directional and omnidirectional transceiver options support operating ranges of up to 4,000 metres.

  • Multiple-Target Tracking – Simultaneously tracks up to 16 underwater targets.

  • Multi-Fire Operation – Optimised interrogation of up to 10 compatible beacons using common frequencies.

  • Independent INS Data – Provides high-accuracy position, heading, roll, pitch and heave data independently of the USBL solution.

  • RTK and PPK Support – Supports real-time positioning and post-processing with Qinertia PPK.

  • Navigation and Data Management – Includes geographical overlays, event logging, data recording and replay functions.

  • Flexible Data Integration – Multiple serial, Ethernet and UDP outputs allow connection to survey and navigation software.

  • Export-Friendly Configuration – MEMS-based INS and range-limited, non-export-controlled system options simplify international mobilisation.

Typical Uses

  • UXO survey positioning

  • ROV and AUV tracking

  • Towfish and subsea sensor positioning

  • Diver tracking

  • Very shallow-water tracking

  • Horizontal and splash-zone tracking

  • Long-range subsea positioning

  • Long-layback survey operations

  • Launch and recovery operations

  • Offshore construction and marine survey support

Key Specifications

  • System: Integrated INS + USBL

  • Console: Easytrak Pyxis Model EZT-3690

  • Acoustic Protocol: Sigma 1, Sigma 2 and compatible tone channels

  • Operating Frequency: 18–32 kHz

  • Maximum Tracking Range: Up to 4,000 m, depending on transceiver

  • Range-Limited Option: 995 m

  • Position Accuracy: Up to 0.12% of slant range, depending on transceiver and operating conditions

  • Range Resolution: 0.01 m

  • Tracking Capacity: Up to 16 targets

  • Interrogation Rate: Greater than 2 Hz

  • Multi-Fire Capacity: Up to 10 common-interrogate beacons

  • Tracking Coverage: Up to 180° hemispherical

  • Transceiver Depth Rating: 30 m

  • INS Roll and Pitch Accuracy: 0.008° RMS in RTK mode

  • INS Heading Accuracy: 0.04° RMS with 2 m baseline; 0.025° RMS with 4 m baseline

  • GNSS Position Accuracy: 0.01 m horizontal and 0.02 m vertical

  • Heave Accuracy: 5 cm or 5% of swell

  • Delayed Heave Accuracy: 2 cm or 2% of swell

  • Timing: GNSS, NTP, PTP and PPS synchronisation

  • Standard Transceiver Cable: 50 m; 30–100 m options available

  • Console Power: 90–250 V AC

  • Data Interfaces: RS-232, RS-485, Ethernet, UDP and USB

Brochures