Voyis has long recognized the importance of optical data in providing intuitive, high-resolution insights from the seafloor. Our Discovery Stereo Vision System is central to enabling ROVs to acquire true 3D perception through real-time depth maps and color imagery. Recently, we introduced two major innovations to further enhance this platform: the integration of VSLAM (Visual Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) for improved spatial awareness and data completeness, and the release of Deep Vision Optics to dramatically boost image clarity and measurement fidelity. Together, these advancements are transforming how the offshore energy sector approaches subsea inspection, asset management, and decommissioning.
OPTIMIZING SPATIAL AWARENESS
Traditionally, underwater inspections face challenges in spatial positioning. As a result, operators often struggle with incomplete data coverage, inefficient planning, and the risk of rework. Recognizing this persistent pain point, Voyis has integrated a cutting-edge VSLAM solution into the Discovery Stereo platform to enable spatially aware optical inspections using only visual inputs.
Powered by a strategic collaboration with our sister company EIVA, the Voyis VSLAM solution uses the real-time 3D point clouds generated by the Discovery Stereo Camera to estimate the vehicle’s motion and build a coherent map of the environment, all without relying on external positioning systems. This enables highly accurate trajectory estimation and live visual feedback of coverage, allowing pilots to see exactly what has been captured and what still needs to be inspected.
The VSLAM system transforms traditional ROV operations by providing a form of “optical situational awareness.” Instead of flying blind, pilots can now ensure full data coverage in real time and optimize their path to avoid duplicate passes or missed areas. This has proven particularly valuable during time critical operations such as pipeline decommissioning, where every hour saved reduces costs and risk.
By using the Discovery stereo camera, Voyis VSLAM Powered by EIVA NaviSuite provides a powerful solution that enhances any inspection workflow. It works in real time, with seamless integration into EIVA’s NaviSuite software, providing both spatially registered data and operator guidance within a single interface. For operators and service providers alike, this means a new level of confidence in the completeness and quality of their subsea inspections.
DEEP VISION OPTICS
In parallel with the VSLAM integration, Voyis has released a new optical module, the Deep Vision Optics, for the Discovery Stereo Vision System. This major hardware update represents a leap forward in subsea imaging performance, particularly in turbid and low light conditions where traditional cameras often fall short.
Deep Vision Optics is a redesigned optical assembly built specifically for the underwater domain. It features custom lens elements, wide aperture configurations, and optimized coatings to reduce internal reflections and enhance light capture at depth. When paired with Voyis’ LED lighting system, this new lens design produces images with improved edge clarity, balanced illumination, and accurate color reproduction.
The impact on 3D reconstruction is equally significant. With better image sharpness and reduced optical distortion, the system can generate more accurate stereo disparity maps, leading to higher-fidelity 3D models. For dimensional measurements, critical for tasks like weld inspections, anode degradation assessments, or marine growth estimation, this translates to submillimetric accuracy.
Combined with onboard processing and data streaming capabilities, Deep Vision Optics ensures that high-quality data is available in real time, directly supporting operational decision-making without requiring post mission reconstruction. This is especially valuable when working in remote or deepwater sites, where inspection time is limited and clarity is paramount.
INDUSTRY CROSSROADS
The offshore energy industry stands at a crossroads between retiring aging infrastructure and accelerating the buildout of renewable energy. In both cases, there is a growing need for efficient and data rich subsea operations. The Discovery Stereo Vision System, enhanced by VSLAM and Deep Vision Optics, directly supports this shift by enabling fast, complete, and accurate visual inspections that reduce time offshore and improve longterm asset documentation.
In decommissioning scenarios, such as the removal of subsea trees, manifolds, or pipelines, the system enables ROV pilots to document structures in full 3D and verify their condition before dismantlement. The combination of accurate measurements and spatial awareness ensures that all critical areas are inspected, and that reports meet regulatory and environmental standards. For operators facing strict timelines and cost pressures, the ability to capture this data in a single pass is a major operational advantage.
Meanwhile, in the offshore wind sector, the Discovery Stereo Vision System is increasingly being used to support installation and inspection of turbine foundations, cable routes, and scour protection.
The system’s ability to provide clear imagery in shallow coastal waters, often affected by poor visibility, makes it ideal for monitoring asset integrity and marine growth over time. As the global push for offshore wind continues to grow, optical systems like Voyis’ are proving essential to ensuring the structural health and longevity of these large-scale renewable investments.
DATA-DRIVEN FUTURE
The continued evolution of the Discovery Stereo Vision System reflects Voyis’ commitment to transforming subsea vision through innovative technologies. By integrating VSLAM for spatial intelligence and launching Deep Vision Optics for superior imaging, they are not only improving the data collected, but also how that data is used, empowering pilots to make smarter decisions and enabling operators to act with greater confidence.
In an industry where time is money, data is power, and certainty is essential, the Discovery Vision System represents a powerful tool to advance the goals of both legacy energy operators and the pioneers of offshore renewables. As optical perception systems become a standard in subsea missions, Voyis continues to lead the charge in illuminating the unknown.
This feature appeared in ON&T Magazine’s 2025 August Edition, Lights, Camera, Action!, to read more access the magazine here.
