AUV Docking Hoop Control System
The project built on an engineering prototype and demonstrated its feasibility. It focused on a particular docking (i.e. ROV) control system to autonomously align the docking hoop in the path of the AUV.
Project leader
Dr Cheng Siong Chin
Dates
April 2013 - May 2014
Project staff
ST Electronics, Singapore
Sponsors
ST Electronics, Singapore
Description
The applications of multi-disciplinary underwater robotic vehicles have experienced tremendous growth.
Examples of robotic vehicle uses:
- Underwater inspection of sub-sea cables
- Oil and gas installations like Christmas trees, structures and pipelines
They are essential at depths where the use of human divers is impractical.
Engineers and researchers classified the URV as remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV).
ROVs are best suited for work that involves operating from a stationary point or cruising at slow speeds. For example, pipeline inspection where the hard wire link is still required.
They are the most cost-effective platform for any tasks involving manipulation. Or tasks requiring maneuverability as well as more control through man-in-the-loop.
For search and rescue (SAR) applications, ROV and AUV are very important.
There is a well recognised need for the system to enable routine SAR missions with a greater reliance on technology. Rather than crewed work boats and expensive on-site labor.
The ROV launches and retrieves the AUV that cover on-site search and recuse mission before returning back to the launch point.