Generally, structures require periodic inspection to ensure safe operation and facilitate necessary repairs. Structures with submerged components are no exception, also needing regular assessment. However, surveying and inspecting underwater structures is inherently challenging for humans to access and poses significant safety risks to personnel. Therefore, to expand accessibility and increase inspection frequency, it’s crucial to have tools or robotic systems that can reach these areas and perform tasks in place of humans.

The Field Robotics Institute at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, in collaboration with organizations recognizing the importance of such work, has researched and developed a prototype Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle (ROV). This remotely controlled inspection robot can maneuver in all directions underwater, with the expectation that it will serve as a model for field applications.

The developed ROV offers the following capabilities and operational environmental scope:
– Transmits underwater imagery to operators controlling it from the surface.
– Allows for the installation of various sensors to take measurements and display results to surface operators.
– Can operate underwater at depths of at least 100 meters.
– Capable of continuous operation for at least 3 hours per dive.
Features a navigation system to assist with maneuvering.