Modular SROV With Standardized Connectors for Submerged Infrastructure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies for remediation of submerged infrastructure, such as power plant cooling conduits, face inefficiencies and high costs due to reliance on manual methods and semi-automated systems that require human intervention, leading to postponed maintenance and increased operational costs, with existing automated systems limited in their ability to navigate complex geometries and remove marine fouling effectively.
Innovation Solution
A modular robotic system, the Submersible Robotically Operable Vehicle (SROV), featuring interchangeable modules with standardized connectors for mechanical stability, power, and signal transfer, and embedded processors for automated operation, enabling flexible configuration and autonomous navigation, debris removal, and obstacle avoidance in submerged environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual methods are used for remediation of submerged infrastructure, then operational flexibility is maintained, but productivity is low and costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is divided into modular components that can be independently configured and assembled. Each module performs a specific function (locomotion, inspection, remediation), allowing the system to be customized for different tasks while maintaining high productivity through automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system performs remediation tasks autonomously without requiring continuous human intervention. The system navigates, inspects, and executes remediation operations on its own, dramatically improving productivity while reducing operational costs compared to manual methods.
2Productivity
If semi-automated systems are used, then some productivity improvement is achieved, but human intervention is still required leading to postponed maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves full automation capability, performing all remediation tasks without human intervention. The robotic platform independently navigates to submerged infrastructure, executes inspection and remediation operations, and returns autonomously, eliminating the need for human operators and enabling routine maintenance scheduling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from semi-automated operation requiring human presence to fully autonomous operation. This parameter change in automation level allows maintenance to be performed on schedule rather than being postponed due to operational constraints.
3Productivity
If existing automated systems are deployed, then productivity increases, but they are limited in navigating complex geometries and removing marine fouling
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system uses modular components including articulated segments that can bend and flex to navigate complex pipe geometries. The segmented structure allows the robot to conform to elbows, bends, and irregular shapes while maintaining propulsion and operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic, articulated mechanisms that allow real-time adaptation to complex geometries. The robotic platform can change its configuration and movement patterns to navigate various pipe shapes and effectively reach marine fouling in difficult-to-access areas.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular components with standardized connectors are used, then adaptability and reconfiguration capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universal standardized connectors that allow any module to be attached to any compatible interface. This universality enables rapid reconfiguration for different tasks without increasing operational complexity, as the same connector standard handles power, data, and mechanical attachment across all modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular architecture with standardized interfaces changes the system from fixed configuration to flexible reconfiguration. While the physical system becomes more complex, the standardization of connectors and interfaces actually simplifies the operational complexity by providing consistent attachment procedures across all modules.
Data Source
AI summary
Modular components form a robotic assembly. the mod-components include modules and tools, each have a set of functions and capabilities, are rapidly configured-reconfigured to function cooperatively, creating a configurable robotic assemblage. Each mod-component incorporates a standardized connector mating with any other standardized connector in an interchangeable manner providing mechanical stability, power, and signals therebetween. Each mod-component incorporates a processor, data storage for mod-component identity, status, and programmable functionality, and for responding to commands. Storage is reprogrammed while the robot is operational, altering both commands and responses. After interconnection, inter-module power and communication are established and each modular component identifies itself and its functionality, thereby providing “plug and play” configuration.