What if underwater robotic research didn’t have to stop to recharge?
As a lead electronics engineer I developed and assembled a resident underwater remotely operated autonomous vehicle that would be utilized for research at University of Hawaii. The goal of the project was to build a vehicle to be self charging underwater, so it doesn’t have to pause missions to come out.
The Process
Based on the Blue Robotics ROV2 this vehicle will be operated remotely and wirelessly collect data from a suite of high tech sensors about oceanic conditions. For over a year I have worked with graduate students at the Robot Autonomy and Navigation (RAN) lab assembling and testing the circuits for the ROV. This vehicle has a Linux computer onboard for self-piloting missions and our ultimate ambition is to have it pilot via optical and acoustic modems for data transfer.
Making the ROV capable of recharging itself between missions on a docking platform (just like a Roomba type device would) and securing itself in place with powerful electromagnets was the key goal of my work. There were many obstacles to overcome on this project: remote operation, data transmission and corrosion. It required constant problem solving as well as both computer science skills and electronics. It allowed me to use my experience with Arduino as well as my two Associates of Science Degrees in General and Digital Electronics. I could spend all day just tinkering in the lab on this loveable little robot, as this is my true passion.
This project represents one of the longest-term projects I have ever worked on, with over a year of work put into the ROV before all the components could be completely assembled and tested in the water. The ROV has been used in several graduate students thesis now that it can operate programs and run commands.
Wiring diagram for the underwater autonomous remote operated vehicle
Wiring diagram for the permanent underwater docking station that will be anchored to the seafloor
This project is a combination of both my love of remote operated vehicles as well as my interest in the ocean and underwater exploration.
