USV (Unmanned Surface Vehicle)V2

A modular surface vehicle prototype for exploring on-water robotics, distributed control and field testing.

Field-test prototype · In development

BN-USV V2 prototype on the water during a field test — BN-USV V2 during an on-water test.

Watch the V2 video on YouTube → · Explore V1 ↓

V2 at a glance

Modular hull

One Main module connects to two Sub modules. Both sides use the same 3D-printed Sub models, arranged symmetrically.

Distributed control

A Raspberry Pi, Main ESP32 and two Sub controllers bring together sensor data, RC control and propulsion over a CAN bus.

Ground control

A browser-based GCS displays telemetry, supports waypoint planning and records field-test data for review.

V2 specifications

Main module (1)
Length	0.25 m
Width	0.15 m
Height	0.08 m
Mass	1,190 g

Sub module (2)
Length	0.65 m
Width	0.11 m
Height	0.13 m
Mass	2,405 g
Draft	62 mm
Freeboard	70 mm
Reserve displacement (fully submerged)	Approx. 3.9 kg

Sub sections
Mid Length × width × height	0.23 × 0.11 × 0.13 m
FWD / AFT Length × width × height	0.21 × 0.11 × 0.13 m

Each Sub consists of FWD, MID and AFT sections; the FWD and AFT designs are symmetrical.

Field testing and next steps

Tested on water

RC control and communication between Main and Sub controllers were exercised during field testing.

Autonomy in progress

Waypoint testing revealed unstable heading acquisition. Control changes need further bench and water validation before reliable autonomous operation.

Hardware improvements

Printability, enclosure sealing and sensor installation remain under development. The shared STL files are prototype designs.

Development noteV2 is an experimental prototype, not a finished or certified product.

Planned hardware

Carrier board pilot program

Brillnova is assessing a Main-and-Sub carrier-board set for the V2 architecture. It is not available for sale yet.

Interest registration

Help estimate pilot demand and preferred supply format through the planned products page.

Prototype first

Board revisions and verification remain in progress; pricing and availability will be announced only after a pilot build.

Project resources

Hull STL files

Explore the hull STL files and weight pallet parts.

Software and firmware

Explore the Pi application and ESP32 firmware in the V2 repository.

Sharing scope

Brillnova-authored software uses the MIT license. STL models use CC BY-NC-SA 4.0; commercial use requires separate permission. PCB manufacturing files and source CAD are not included.

RepositoryExplore the BN-USV V2 repository →

V1

Reference prototype · Not for sale

The first BN-USV prototype brought together GPS navigation, propulsion control and onboard data logging. Its field testing informed the modular V2 design.

BN-USV V1 prototype on the water with a central hull and two outriggers — V1 during on-water testing.

V1 at a glance

Navigation

Uses GPS and heading data to calculate the distance and direction to a target waypoint.

Propulsion control

Turns navigation inputs into throttle and steering commands for the onboard controller.

Data logging

Records position, sensor readings, control signals and battery status for review.

Explore the V1 repository →

Reference designV1 is not a ready-to-print DIY kit. Its hull requires post-processing, bonding and waterproofing. See the V1 repository for license and assembly notes.

V1 specifications

Central hull
Length	0.7 m
Width	0.15 m
Draft	0.1 m
Mass	2.9 kg

Outriggers (2)
Length	0.5 m
Width	0.06 m
Draft	0.025 m
Mass	0.33 kg

Complete assembly
Length	0.7 m
Width	0.46 m
Mass	4.14 kg

Complete assembly: central hull, two outriggers and lid.

Contact

contact@brillnova.net