Underwater Communication and Ranging Module: The Acoustic Nerve Center for Autonomous Aquatic Systems

Underwater Communication and Ranging Module will be exhibited at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, USA.

Consumer Electronics Show (CES)
Dates: January 6–9, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, USA
Booth Number: North Hall 10529

Operating autonomously in the constrained and signal-attenuating underwater environment presents unique challenges, particularly for communication and precise navigation. The Underwater Communication and Ranging Module is a specialized, integrated device engineered to overcome these hurdles, providing a dual-function solution for reliable data transmission and spatial awareness beneath the waves.

Dual-Function Core: Communication and Ranging
This module serves as the critical acoustic interface for underwater robots. It leverages acoustic waves, which travel effectively through water, to perform two essential tasks:

Reliable Data Communication: It enables submersible robots, such as advanced pool or tank cleaning robots, to communicate with base stations or other agents. This two-way link is vital for sending operational status, receiving commands, and transmitting sensor data.

Precise Ranging and Positioning: Simultaneously, the module measures distances to objects or beacons. This capability is fundamental for underwater target localization and navigation, allowing robots to map their environment and maneuver accurately.

Enabling Advanced Autonomy: Docking & Recharging
A standout application of this dual capability is enabling fully autonomous operational cycles. The module's precise ranging and positioning capabilities allow a cleaning robot to accurately locate and navigate towards its docking station. This facilitates completely autonomous docking and recharging, eliminating the need for manual intervention and ensuring the robot is always ready for its next task.

Key Performance Specifications
Designed for practical deployment, the module delivers robust performance metrics:

Extended Communication Range: A communication range ≥ 20 meters ensures stable data links in residential, commercial, and larger aquatic environments.

Effective Detection Range: With a detection range up to 8 meters for ranging purposes, it provides sufficient spatial awareness for navigation and obstacle avoidance near the robot.

High Data Integrity: A low bit error rate ≤ 10^-3 ensures that transmitted commands and data are highly reliable, which is crucial for safe and correct operation.

Rugged Construction: Like its sensing counterparts, it features an IP68 protection rating, guaranteeing resilience against long-term immersion and particulate matter.

Conclusion
The Underwater Communication and Ranging Module is more than a component; it is the critical intelligent hardware that empowers true autonomy for underwater robots. By seamlessly integrating reliable acoustic communication with accurate ranging in a single, robust package, it solves the fundamental challenges of staying connected and knowing one's position underwater, paving the way for smarter, more independent aquatic robotic systems.