Physical prototype design and testing of remotely operational underwater vehicle (ROV)

Abstract

Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) controls by human commands for underwater research have been under study and development over the past few years mainly for academic purpose. Due to the risks to human life that underwater operations possess, they have been .gradually replaced divers and manned submersibles. In addition to safety, ROVs offered a more effective and low-cost method for underwater research or sea exploitation, and this is the primary reason for the rapid development of numerous vehicles over the past few years. The aim of this project ROV is to design, create, build and implement an underwater vehicle that will be able to do simple task and also dive deeper to the seabed to obtain objects. For that purposes, a small ROV which is light and easy to carry is considered and developed. This will operate using 12 volts, able to operate at a depth of 3 meters, and fit within an 18 centimeter by 18 centimeter by 22 centimeter area. It will have a camera to allow for hull inspection or underwater viewing, such as a coral reef. The vehicle gets its maneuverability from 3 mounted electrical thrusters (left, right and middle). It will have a control box with a screen for viewing of the camera's video and the control box will be attached to the ROV by a tether. Its maximum use depth will be 3m. Eventually, this project is shall contribute in promoting exploration interest among scientific society in UMT and to become a prototype platform for advanced ROV development.