QNA Demonstrates New Acoustic Underwater Data Communications Technology

QinetiQ North America (QNA) has announced that it has successfully demonstrated full-duplex underwater acoustic data communications, using its new proprietary DOLPHIN technology. Developed in partnership with Optimal Systems Laboratory, the DOLPHIN Communication technology will enable new capabilities for undersea systems such as unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). QNA and OSL have developed a unique way of using patented cancelation technology that will enable simultaneous transmit and receive (STAR) acoustic communications. This technology will make it possible to create extensive undersea data and communication wireless networks, solving many challenges for Navy and commercial users.

Dolphin benefits include:

• Enables self-forming acoustic underwater networks to operate similarly to wireless land networks with nodes in motion
• Multi-component control networks for fixed and mobile assets anywhere underwater
• Frequency independence, allowing DOLPHIN Comms to be configurable on most systems and platforms (unmanned underwater vehicles, submarines, ships, etc.)
• Full duplex communications greatly improves acoustic data transfer performance over other technologies
• Dolphin Comms STAR enables extremely low power communications

Dolphin Technology was demonstrated during the Advanced Navy Technology Exercise (ANTX) held in Panama City, Florida.