The upgrade included a new Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)-based vehicle control system, according to a news release by Phoenix International Holdings, which performed the work.
The new controls "increase the vehicle's bandwidth to accommodate advanced sensors and provide intuitive, accessible functionality to allow ROV [remotely-operated vehicle] technicians to address common software related challenges (e.g., installing and integrating new sensors to address specific operational requirements).
To support the greater demand for bandwidth, the overall system design also included fiber optics throughout the vehicle and within the vehicle's new umbilical."
Deep Drone can dive as deep as 8,000 feet.
Other improvements include a high-definition camera and a new umbilical. The upgraded drone was tested off the Bahamas before returning to service.
