Voyis and EIVA, both part of the Covelya Group, have released a technical update to their Voyis VSLAM Powered by EIVA NaviSuite solution, adding absolute geolocated mapping to real-time camera-based 3D reconstruction for subsea inspection and metrology. The update allows point clouds generated during an inspection to be positioned directly within global coordinates from the start of a mission.
By integrating NaviSuite’s geodetic engine, users can define geodetic settings before data acquisition, including the selection of coordinate systems from the full EPSG library. The system reads the initial global position from a connected inertial navigation system, such as Sonardyne SPRINT-Nav, and places the map within the chosen geodetic frame at mission start. This global alignment is maintained throughout the dive, even when relocalisation or loop-closure events occur, while local geometry continues to be refined.
For pilots and surveyors, the update improves interaction with live 3D visual data. Background maps, reference charts or seabed models can be displayed beneath the live point cloud, while existing models, including CAD drawings of subsea structures, can be overlaid for navigation and comparison. Inspection targets can be marked in absolute coordinates and revisited across multiple dives, vessels or campaigns, supporting more consistent operations.
The move from relative to globally consistent visual mapping supports continuity between inspection campaigns, simplifies comparison with engineering and historical survey data, and reduces unnecessary repeat coverage. Improved spatial context also supports safer and more efficient remotely operated vehicle navigation.
After acquisition, point clouds can be managed in NaviModel, where datasets may be re-projected into alternative reference frames to meet project requirements and long-term data management needs.
