A scalable seafloor imaging approach

Master thesis (2022)

Authors

S.H.R. Rutten Mechanical Engineering

Contributors

A.A. Kana Ship Design, Production and Operations - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (supervisor 1)
R.L.J. Helmons Offshore and Dredging Engineering - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (supervisor 2)
C.L. Walters Ship Hydromechanics and Structures - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (supervisor 2)
Faculty
Mechanical Engineering
Copyright: © 2022 Stephan Rutten
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Published Date

30-11-2022

Language

English

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Faculty

Mechanical Engineering

Abstract

The objective of this research is to evaluate what is required to make the operation of multiple robots feasible for large scale seafloor imaging campaigns. Three blocking issues were identified; high cost of subsea robots, limited handling efficiency and insufficiently performant localization technology. These are solved by applying, in order: novel engineering solutions, automation, and solutions from literature. A proof of concept system design and a model are developed to analyze how the physical parameters of the subsea robots relate to the performance of the subsea mapping system. A case study shows that for large areas, the proposed solution is 80 times faster and less costly than conventional approaches. In conclusion, there is a technically feasible approach that can be used photograph the seafloor in a more cost-effective manner on a large scale.