The Argus system, developed by Nexxis, is a 3D SLAM-based localisation and mapping platform, primarily used for autonomous inspection and data acquisition in industrial environments. It integrates LiDAR, IMU, and camera systems to generate accurate, real-time 3D point clouds and localise itself within a mapped environment, making it highly effective in GPS-denied or hazardous spaces.
ARGUS - An all in one 3d mapping, localisation and automation solution
APPLICATIONS
A key application of Argus is in asset inspection and mapping, where it is deployed on robotic crawlers or drones to scan tanks, vessels, tunnels, or piping systems. The system produces highly accurate, real-time 3D maps that help identify structural defects such as corrosion, cracking, or deformation. These maps can be integrated with NDT data, offering precise localization of inspection results and reducing the need for manual documentation.
Vessels
Argus enables detailed 3D point cloud modeling of pipes, tanks, and vessels, allowing inspectors to remotely assess asset conditions, track changes over time, and share accurate visuals without the need for repeat site visits.
This improves efficiency, speeds up decision-making, and significantly enhances safety. By removing the need for personnel to enter hazardous environments, Argus plays a critical role in eliminating confined space entries (CSEs). Deployed on robotic platforms, it allows operators to conduct inspections from a safe distance while capturing high-quality data in real time. The result is not only safer operations but also more consistent and reliable inspection outcomes.
Critical Asset Integrity & Inspection
For robotic autonomy and navigation, Argus plays a critical role in enabling robots to localize themselves and plan paths through unknown or dynamic environments. Its SLAM engine is especially valuable in GNSS-denied zones such as underground mines, inside ships cargo tanks, or in defense scenarios. This makes it ideal for supporting autonomy in search and rescue, space exploration, oil and gas and military applications.
Site Mapping & Planning
Argus captures real-time, high-resolution 3D point clouds to streamline inspection workflows, from planning to shutdown. By visualising sites in advance, teams can coordinate, identify risks, and allocate resources more efficiently, reducing time, cost, and exposure.
These scans also support digital twin creation, enabling accurate, repeatable models for monitoring, predictive maintenance, and change detection. Argus integrates seamlessly with platforms like Unity, Unreal Engine, and cloud-based systems.
In emergencies, Argus enables safe, remote inspection of hazardous environments. Mounted on robots, it provides first responders with real-time spatial awareness without risking personnel.
Machine Vision Capabilities
Argus SLAM advances robotic machine vision by enabling real-time 3D localization and mapping, even in GPS- and light-denied environments. Using LiDAR, IMU, and camera fusion via CSIRO’s Wildcat SLAM engine, it gives robots spatial awareness for autonomous navigation and inspection.
For robotic arms and tooling, Argus allows precise localization relative to assets, enabling accurate UT scans, weld tracking, and surface inspections. Inspection data is geotagged to the 3D map, ensuring repeatability and traceability.
With built-in path planning, Argus guides robots through complex environments, avoiding obstacles and adapting in real time. It transforms robots from remote-controlled tools into intelligent systems capable of autonomous, high-precision inspection, improving safety, efficiency, and data quality in asset integrity programs.
