Development of modular design for a bioinspired ROV

Abstract

ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) is a versatile equipment widely used in the varied operations of oil rigs, including having applicability in the military field. It is an unmanned submarine vehicle, controlled by the surface through an umbilical cable responsible for power feeding and communication with it, and extremely important due to its ability to reach places and depths practically inaccessible to human divers, making it practical and especially safe. The proposal of this research project is the conceiving and development of a bio-inspired design for a modular ROV. It seeks to incorporate the biomimetic efficiency in the system, in addition to seeking the maximum possible modularity in the design, with accessories such as robotic arms, conveyor belts and propellers, allowing its operation in the most diverse environments. It will be autonomous with possibility of operation via batteries (therefore, also being configured as an AUV - Autonomous Underwater Vehicle), but having access to an umbilical cable if desired. Since it will be possible to operate both as an ROV and as an AUV, it is referred to as an HROV (Hybrid Remotely Operated Vehicle). (AU)