Image 1 : Implementation of Avetics Global ROV Technology for Underwater Inspection on POSH Bawean Ship

A trial deployment of a customized underwater drone, better known as a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), has been conducted by Avetics Global for POSH Bawean hull inspection.

Avetics Global is a company that focuses on drone technology for the industrial sector. The company provides various services such as drone-based inspections, aerial photography and videography, and drone pilot training. Founded in 2013, the company is based in Singapore and operates from its headquarters at Science Park Drive.

In relation to the maritime industry, Avetics Global is looking to improve safety in underwater inspections using Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). For improved functionality in underswater ROVs, it is important to optimize their control systems and dynamic design. Accurate dynamic modeling, including an understanding of the hydrodynamic coefficients and underwater behavior of the ROV, is helpful in anticipating its movement and resistance to ocean currents. Sophisticated control strategies, such as Generalized Predictive Control (GPC) algorithms, are used to reduce oscillations and ensure the stability of the ROV when operating in unstable environments. Real-world testing, such as pond or sea trials, is also required to verify the effectiveness of the controls and ensure the ROV can navigate safely despite external disturbances. Taking these elements into account, Avetics Global has built an improved ROV for underwater inspections with the potential of reducing accidents and damage while delivering high quality inspections.

Avetics Global has recently conducted a trial deployment of a customized underwater drone for the hull inspection of POSH Bawean. There are many reasons to use ROVs for underwater inspections of ships, but the most basic is related to safety. Previously, such inspections relied on human divers who had to perform the inspection directly underwater, but with ROV technology, this process has become more efficient, safer and more manageable. These ROVs, which are the operate based on the integration of robotic technology and advanced software, allow for the identification of potential issues on a vessel’s structure without the need for divers to be present, which can often present a safety risk to the individuals involved.

The ROV used in Avetics Global’s trial is the CHASING M2 model, which is designed for industrial applications and professional users. This drone has the ability to move omnidirectionally thanks to its 8 thruster design, allowing the drone to move in any direction with very precise control. With a small, lightweight and compact design, the drone allows for operation by a single person, which makes it much more efficient compared to traditional inspection methods that require multiple people and additional equipment. The time required to lower and set up the ROV is also relatively short, requiring only about 3 minutes.

Image 2 : The ROV Chasing M2 has the advantage of a 4K camera with an Image Stabilization system (EIS), which enables high-resolution image and video capture and outstanding image stability even in rough water conditions.

In addition, Avetics Global’s ROV is equipped with various advanced technological features that make it a highly efficient tool for underwater inspection. One of the key features that CHASING M2 excels at is its 4K camera with Image Stabilization system (EIS), which enables high-resolution image and video capture as well as exceptional image stability even in rough water conditions. It has a 12MP resolution and a field of view (FOV) of up to 152°, which enables high-detailed images and videos of a wide area to be captured. The lighting system is no less important, and the ROV is equipped with two 2000 lumens LED lights that can illuminate underwater areas even in low lighting conditions, such as in deep water or around submerged vessels.

Yet another feature that sets the CHASING M2 apart from other underwater drones is its ability to operate in a variety of underwater environmental conditions with different types of accessories that can be attached as per mission requirements. Some of these accessories include a GoPro camera to capture images or videos with different perspectives, an external LED light for additional lighting, a laser scaler to accurately measure distances, and a Robot Claw that allows the drone to pick up or manipulate objects underwater.

One of the latest innovations added to the CHASING M2 is the electric spool accessory, which allows users to roll up and store cables very quickly and efficiently. The spool comes with an automatic feature that automatically coils the cable, reducing the time needed to prepare the drone for reuse. The length of cable that can be stored is up to 200 meters and can be reeled up to 12 times after a full charge. This function is especially useful in missions that require traveling deep underwater or inspections over a longer period of time. This electric spool accessory is highly compatible with all CHASING products, so users do not have to worry about the problem of manually reeling the cable which is often an issue in underwater drone use.

The use of ROVs also has a positive impact on operational efficiency and cost management. With this technology, the time required for ship inspection and maintenance can be shortened. This is especially important in the context of maintaining commercial vessels that need to operate optimally without long downtimes. Through the use of ROVs, companies can reduce operational costs associated with divers, manual tools, and the time required to prepare a large inspection team. With ROVs, companies can also conduct routine or incidental inspections faster and more cost-effectively, without compromising the quality or accuracy of the inspection results.

References:

https://www.avetics.com/about

https://www.avetics.com/chasing-m2

https://posh.com.sg/trialed-the-deployment-of-a-customised-underwater-drone-or-more-commonly-known-as-a-remotely-operated-vehicle-rov-with-avetics-global-for-an-inspection-of-the-hull-of-posh-bawean/

ZHANG, G., ZENG, Q., DAI, X., ZHU, C., & LING, H. (2018). Control system of ROV for underwater safety inspection and operation. Chinese Journal of Ship Research, 13(6).

Contributor      : Masyita Deta Rahadiani

Reviewer         : Imam Buchari