The uOne hybrid robot, developed by the Belgian company uWare Robotics, promises to revolutionize underwater operations by taking on the risk and effort functions traditionally performed by divers. This innovative device combines features of two types of well-known underwater robots: ROVs and AUVs.
Hybrid robot with ROV and AUV skills
Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) are controlled by pilots from the surface, who orient themselves via live video feeds. Although they are highly maneuverable, their mobility is limited by an umbilical cable which, if tangled, can result in loss of the device.
On the other hand, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) operate without cables, navigating independently and avoiding obstacles on long missions. However, its speed-optimized design limits its ability to perform stationary maneuvers or rotate on its axis.
The uOne from uWare Robotics is billed as an AUV due to its ability to follow pre-programmed underwater routes with the help of cameras and an inertial measurement unit (IMU). Users can upload this route data to the vehicle’s computer wirelessly before their dive.
However, this robot is not similar to conventional AUVs, as its structure is shorter and more robust and is equipped with eight vector thrusters that allow it to remain static or move freely in any direction without the risk of becoming entangled with cables . Its main application is the inspection of underwater infrastructure , such as oil platforms and pipelines, making 3D maps and examining potentially critical points of interest.
The device combines features of two types of underwater robots (ROV and AUV). Source: uWare Robotics
Other important specifications
The uOne stores all collected information on an internal solid state drive, which can be downloaded wirelessly at the end of its mission . In terms of design, it measures 40 cm high, wide and 50 cm long, weighs 15 kg in surface area and can carry up to 5 kg of additional load . Its maximum speed is 3 knots and it has an autonomy of 2 hours, with an equivalent charging time for its interchangeable battery.
Currently, the uOne is designed with an acrylic hull that allows it to submerge up to 75 meters , although versions with aluminum hulls are being developed for greater depths. The system is simple enough to be deployed by a single person in approximately 10 minutes.
Integrating the uOne into underwater operations improves safety by reducing the need for human divers in hazardous environments and increasing the efficiency and accuracy of underwater inspections. This advance could mean a paradigmatic change in how underwater infrastructures are managed and maintained, allowing for faster and less costly interventions.
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Source and photo: newatlas.com
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