Development of a low-cost remotely operated vehicle for ocean exploration

Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) are expensive and complicated systems for ocean exploration. ROVs are playing more and more important roles in the exploration of the ocean and fishery industry. If we could build a low-cost ROV so that people could afford it, then more and more people will have the opportunities to explore the ocean. In 2014, the Science and Technology on Underwater Vehicle Laboratory at Harbin Engineering University started a low-cost ROV project. The goal of this project is to develop a small inspection-class ROV that carries a video camera for underwater inspection. The ROV's total weight in the air is less than 10kg. The depth rating of the ROV is 150m and the maximum speed is 4 knots. The total cost is controlled under $4000. This paper presents the details of this ROV design and test results.