Did you know that underwater robots can handle the ocean’s most extreme environments, from shallow shores to the deep-sea floor? These versatile machines are not only resilient but also save significant costs by eliminating the need for human-operated deep-sea missions.
We’ll cover:
- How these underwater bots get the job done
- The many cool ways they’re used, from marine research to search-and-rescue missions
- The perks and problems of using underwater robots
- What you should look for if you want to add one to your team
Let’s dive right into what makes an underwater robot tick.
What is an underwater robot?
Underwater robots handle jobs that range from exploring unknown waters to fixing deep-sea pipelines — all without needing a human to get wet. But what exactly are these machines, and how do they work?
Let’s break it down:
- Rolling in the deep: An underwater robot isn’t just a fancy gadget — it’s specifically designed to survive in challenging aquatic environments. They’re a bit like submarines but with more versatility and way cooler tech.
- Two main types, two approaches: The world of underwater robots is dominated by two heavy hitters: ROVs and AUVs. ROVs are remotely operated by humans, usually tethered to a control system on a ship. They’re great when you need precision control or real-time decision-making. On the other hand, AUVs are like freelancers in the robot world — no boss is needed. They go out on pre-programmed missions independently, whether it’s mapping ocean floors or monitoring marine life.
How do underwater robots work?
Now that we know what an underwater robot is, we’re going to get deeper into how they actually do their jobs. Mostly, it’s their ability to gather data in a variety of environments that makes them so incredibly valuable.
Here’s how they make it happen:
- Eyes below the surface: Underwater robots rely heavily on sensors and cameras to navigate and collect data. They use sonar to detect obstacles, cameras to capture images, and even specialized sensors to measure water quality or temperature. Without these, they’d be flying blind in the murky depths.
- Getting around: Thrusters power an underwater robot, giving it the ability to move in all directions — forward, backward, up, down, and even sideways. These precise thrusters allow them to hover, adjust position, and navigate through tight spots easily.
What can an underwater robot do?
Underwater robots aren’t just for exploring shipwrecks and spying on fish. In truth, they have a pretty wide range of applications.
Here’s where they’re making a splash:
- Marine research: Underwater robots help scientists study marine life, map ocean floors, and track environmental changes — all without disturbing the fragile ecosystems they’re exploring.
- Oil and gas industry: Need to inspect pipelines and platforms at unreachable depths? No problem. Underwater robots handle the inspections, repairs, and maintenance of structures deep below the surface, where human divers can’t go.
- Search and rescue operations: Whether it’s locating wreckage, retrieving objects from the seabed, or helping out in underwater rescue missions, these robots are absolutely indispensable. They can explore areas too dangerous for human divers, helping save lives and recover valuable information.
Big benefits of using underwater robots
So, we’ve already established that these robots are kind of a big deal.
Here’s why underwater robots are a must-have:
- Keeping humans safe (and dry): When the job involves extreme depths, freezing temperatures, or dangerous conditions, sending a human down there just doesn’t cut it.
- Exploring the unknown: The ocean is still one of the least explored places on Earth, and it’s no surprise why. Depths, pressure, and distance make human exploration almost impossible. But underwater robots don’t care about limits. Specialized deep-diving robots can explore extreme environments like the Mariana Trench.
- Cost savings that add up: Manned underwater missions can cost a literal fortune. Between specialized equipment, trained divers, and all the logistics involved, the price tag skyrockets fast. But underwater robots keep things a bit more affordable. Once you’ve got your robot, it can handle repetitive or long-term exploration without racking up those massive costs — making it perfect for businesses, research, or rescue operations on a budget.
- 24/7 operations: Underwater robots can work around the clock, whether it's inspecting pipelines, monitoring marine life, or conducting underwater surveys. This constant availability makes them incredibly efficient for jobs that require ongoing observation.
- Precision and adaptability in the depths: Underwater robots have state-of-the-art sensors and cameras, letting them capture high-quality images and data, even in low visibility.
Challenges of using underwater robots
While underwater robots are amazing tools, it’s not all smooth diving; working in the depths of the ocean comes with its own set of obstacles, and even the best robots can run into some brick walls.
Here’s what you’re up against:
- Power limitations: Underwater robots don’t have an infinite power supply, and that can be a real problem during long missions. Batteries can drain faster underwater in some conditions, and recharging a robot mid-ocean isn’t exactly an easy task. If the robot runs out of juice too soon, you might find yourself cutting the mission short.
- The deep-sea communication breakdown: It’s tough to stay in touch with your robot when it’s deep below the surface. AUVs are designed to operate autonomously, though real-time communication becomes more difficult as they venture deeper.
- High maintenance costs: Operating in harsh underwater conditions takes its toll. Saltwater can corrode parts over time, though robots built with corrosion-resistant materials like titanium are more durable. Maintaining an underwater robot isn’t just a quick oil change; it requires specialized care, which adds to the overall cost.
- Too much data is not always a good thing: These bots are great at collecting data, but they can get too much at once. When a robot needs to get data from sensors, cameras, and sonar all at once, it can be overwhelming to process it all. However, not many robots now include automated processing systems to streamline analysis.
What to look for when buying an underwater robot
Are you thinking about adding something a bit more complex than a Lego underwater robot to your toolkit? Whether you're planning to explore deep-sea environments, conduct scientific research, or handle industrial inspections, picking the right robot means making a good buy or spending money for nothing.
Here’s what you need to think about:
Depth capacity
The first thing to check is how deep your underwater robot can operate. Different robots are built for different depths, so it’s essential to match the robot’s capabilities to your needs. If you're working in shallow waters, a simpler, less expensive robot will do the trick. But for deep-sea exploration or industrial work, you’ll need a robot designed to handle extreme depths — where pressure can crush anything that can’t take it.
Make sure the robot’s depth rating covers the environment where you plan to use it.
Built to withstand the ocean
Underwater environments are no joke. The robot you choose should be made of materials that can resist corrosion, pressure, and wear. Saltwater is particularly tough on equipment, so look for high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials like titanium or special-grade stainless steel.
Also, check how well-sealed the robot is to prevent water from damaging its delicate electronics. Sure, you can take a ROV robot underwater, but you don’t want to lose it to a leak 1,000 meters below.
The more sensors and payload, the better
The more advanced the sensors, the more valuable the data. Look for customizable sensor packages so you can tailor the robot to your specific task. Whether it’s high-resolution cameras for video capture, sonar for mapping, or chemical sensors to measure water quality, having the right payload can make or break a mission.
And if you need flexibility, go for robots that allow you to swap out or add different sensors for future tasks.
Control systems and user interface
A robot is only as useful as its operator’s ability to control it. Check out the control system and user interface before buying. Is it intuitive? Can you operate it easily? Is it harder to master than Street Fighter VI (Yes, we’re up to VI now; we’re all old)?
For ROVs, you’ll likely be using a tethered control system, which offers real-time control and feedback. For AUVs, it’s all about the autonomous settings — making sure the robot can handle long missions with minimal intervention. Choose a system that suits your team’s skill level and operational needs.
Power supply
Battery life is a huge factor. Underwater robots can’t exactly stop and recharge in the middle of a mission, so you’ll need to make sure your robot can last as long as you need it to. Look for energy-efficient robots designed for long missions without needing constant re-ups.
If you’re operating in deeper waters, you’ll want a robot with enough endurance to get to the worksite, do its job, and return to the surface — all without running out of power.
Costs and maintenance
The initial purchase price is just one part of the equation. You’ll also need to think long and hard about long-term costs like maintenance, repairs, and operational expenses. Robots meant for harsh environments will need more frequent maintenance, which can add up over time.
Be sure to factor in how often parts will need to be replaced, the cost of specialized tools or technicians, and how accessible the manufacturer’s support is.
Cheaper robots may seem like a bargain upfront, but they could end up costing more in the long run if maintenance is a nightmare.
Summing up
An underwater robot handles the tough, dangerous jobs beneath the surface, whether it’s marine research or industrial inspections.
Meanwhile, land-based bots like RO1 from Standard Bots offer a cost-effective solution for automating tasks and increasing efficiency on your shop floor.
Whether you need to get stuff done on sea or land, bots offer a way to do it without stretching your finances too thin.
Standard Bots: A land-based solution for automation needs
While underwater robots handle challenges beneath the surface, businesses focused on land operations can rely on robots like the RO1 by Standard Bots for similar automation solutions.
They’re ideal for industries that need precision and speed on land without dealing with the complexity of underwater environments.
Ready to add a high-tech robot to your team? RO1 is the perfect land-based solution for automating repetitive tasks — all without the need for complex programming. Here’s what you get:
- Budget-friendly: RO1 is half the price of comparable models, making it an affordable option for businesses of any size.
- Strong and speedy: With a best-in-class payload capacity of 18kg, RO1 moves fast and handles jobs efficiently.
- Simple setup: RO1 offers a no-code setup and is designed for high-efficiency automation, making it a versatile choice for industries needing land-based robotic assistance.
- Safety first: Equipped with sensors, machine vision, and collision detection, RO1 ensures the safety of your team while taking on the heavy lifting.
Ready to see what RO1 can do for you? Get in touch with our team today and try it risk-free for 30 days. We’ll help you get set up and ready to roll.
