Smart inspection ROV for use in challenging conditions

This paper presents the design concept of developing a smart, inspection remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that is to be used in challenging conditions. The cost of installation and maintenance of marine renewable energy (MRE) devices must be reduced in order for the technologies to have further financial viability. Current inspection ROV technologies are unable to operate in the challenging conditions where these MRE devices are situated. To aid in the reduction of MRE installation and maintenance costs a ROV is being developed which will allow for remote inspection of these structures. The design process of the ROV is detailed. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis has been conducted to aid in making decisions on shape of ROV. The acquisition of equipment and testing of systems, such as the inertial navigation system (INS), is described. Results of initial tests are provided and the future work and testing is explained.