Robots Roaming the Unknown: The Ocean
Posted June 10th, 2015
When you think of drones, the first image that comes to mind is little robots buzzing around the sky. But why couldn’t the same technology that makes low-cost, unmanned flight such an exciting prospect also work in the ocean?
A group of researchers from the Monterrey Bay Aquarium Research Institute had the same idea, and they are now using seafaring robots to conduct the kinds of comprehensive oceanographic research that would be impossible in manned vessels.
The drones themselves look something like missiles, or possibly torpedoes. For that reason, they are boldly marked “Not a weapon – Science Instrument” to avoid sparking off an international incident. The drones can operate for weeks continuously, cannot drown, can survive a shark bite, and can conduct systematic surveys that reveal the ocean like never before. For that reason, they are revolutionizing research in a variety of marine-based fields.
This new capability is coming at an opportune time. The world’s oceans are currently in peril, facing catastrophic threats posed by everything from climate change and overfishing to chemical spills. Most researchers agree that if serious steps aren’t taken soon, the ocean as we know it could be destroyed. The sophisticated capabilities of aquatic drones offer the kind of deep perspective that is necessary to find real solutions to big problems.
The drones are remarkably energy efficient, thanks to a clever piece of engineering. Rather than using a motor, they shift their buoyancy up and down so that they move through the water much like a slow-moving dolphin. When they need to turn, they simply shift their battery packs. Under optimal conditions, one drone can operate continuously for six months and cover 2,500 miles of territory. Other, larger versions operate for less time but can dive to a depth of up to a mile.
Scientists rely on the drones to measure levels of salinity, pressure, oxygen, and other relevant metrics, to create detailed maps of the sea floor, and even to collect samples of sea life and water for further testing. Some of this data is then used to create 3-D models that scientists can navigate using an Occulus Rift virtual reality headset. The technology is still in its infancy, but represents a huge advancement over the tools that scientists had at their disposal just a decade ago.
The development and deployment of aquatic drones illustrates how quickly drone technology is changing the world, and how broad its impact really is. In terms of exploration and data collection, the applications are basically endless. Follow along with Bayside Solutions as we keep you up to date about the state of the cutting edge.
