Marine robotics company Ocean Infinity had purchased 10 electric work remotely operated vehicles (eWROV) from UK-based manufacturer Saab Seaeye, as it works to develop the world’s largest fleet of uncrewed robotic vessels – the Armada.
According to reports in Offshore Engineer, this will be the eWROV’s largest order so far but no financial details were disclosed.
Designed for the offshore energy sectors, ocean science and defence, the eWROV can deliver the same overall performance as a 250-horsepower hydraulic vehicle. It has been developed over four years to be the largest and most powerful ROV compared to those designed for light work and observation tasks.
Additionally, the eWROV features dual 7 function robotic manipulators for advanced control, more precise positioning, increased dexterity and greater reliability. A common technology ecosystem and intelligent architecture of configurable hardware and software modules provides real-time system control and feedback.
The manufacturer added the eWROV‘s electrification is the key to its improved performance and sustainability-related attributes. It has the in-built capability to be operated from onshore command and control centres.
“As well as being more efficient, electric systems use little or no oil, making the eWROV significantly more environmentally friendly than equivalent hydraulic work-class systems. Benefitting from our iCON intelligent system architecture the eWROV is capable of fully autonomous operation,” Saab Seaeye said.
“The eWROV will play its part in Ocean Infinity’s mission to use innovative technology to transform operations at sea, enabling people and the planet to thrive. Armada is set to revolutionise the maritime industry, delivering sustainable services that offer up to 90% emissions savings over a conventional vessel performing a similar offshore task.”
As previously reported by Robotics and Automation, Ocean Infinity acquired UK offshore services firm Ambrey in June to help it mobilise its Armada fleet of robotic vessels.
Dan Hook, chief technology officer, Ocean Infinity, said: “Lessening the environmental impact of operations at sea is the main driver behind the development of Armada. The all-electric eWROV, in addition to our already low-emission vessels, will enable us to support our customers with infrastructure integrity projects in the most environmentally responsible way.
“The eWROVs will form an important part of our Armada architecture; through integration with our dynamic payload controller, we’ll be able to deploy and operate them anywhere in the world from our remote control centres.”
