Introduction Remotely Operated Vehicle's (ROVs) are a well developed technology that are used for a myriad of underwater tasks. The challenge isn't to create a bigger more versatile ROV, that has already been done. Rather, the challenge is to perform the tasks that are currently being done by large intervention style ROV's with smaller observation class ROV's like the Falcon. The OTL is engaged in several research projects to develop new tooling and functionality for the Saab SeaEye Falcon ROV.

MANO: BF-12 Saab SeaEye Falcon OTTB MACO- Hybrid AUV HD Camera Underwater GPS

Long-term Tethered Deployments

One of the long-term requirements for cabled ocean observatories is for a multi-purpose underwater vehicle that can be tethered to a node for extended periods. A tethered vehicle has the advantage of real-time high-speed communication which can transmit video and other telemetry back to the surface support while out on a mission. With the OTTB, it will be possible to integrate a tethered vehicle into the VENUS observatory system and facilitate research into several of the lagging technological areas. This vehicle research will be enhanced by a complete integration with the IAS, which will act as a positioning system and provide real-time feedback for guidance, navigation and control testing.

A tethered vehicle should be capable of remaining attached to an observatory node for long durations; the vehicle could perform multiple functions: carry science packages in the vicinity of the node; re-position instrument packages; gather high resolution imagery of sea-floor specimens on scheduled timelines; collect sea-floor samples and deliver to sensors for analysis; undertake service and repair tasks on sea-floor equipment.

To investigate long term deployments and integrating ROVs into the observatory system, the OTL will be connecting the Sea Eye Falcon ROV to the recoverable platform. In this bottom-tethered configuration the vehicle will remain underwater for extended durations and will be operated over the Internet through the VENUS system.

Precision Position Control Systems

Customized Tooling