Buyer’s Guide for Observation Class ROV
You are contemplating the acquisition of an observation class remote operated vehicle, a decision with a multitude of options in today's market. Depending on your specific applications and needs, certain vehicles may stand out as more suitable choices than others, especially when considering factors such as payload capacity, maneuverability, and technological features.
ObsROV - the basics
An Observation Class Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ObsROV) is a small, maneuverable underwater vehicle tethered to a control centre at the surface by an umbilical cable (aka tether).
Unlike submersibles, ObsROVs are unmanned and controlled remotely by a pilot. Observation Class ROVs are frequently used for visual (video) inspection, or for scientific research and exploration, in relatively shallow waters, such as coastal areas, lakes and rivers. Nevertheless, some Observation class vehicles are rated for inspection work in much deeper waters - sometimes in excess of 1,000 metres.
Typically, ObsROVs are equipped with high-definition cameras and various sensors that allow them to capture images and data from the underwater environment. Some ObsROVs may also have manipulator arms that enable them to collect samples or perform simple tasks.
Some key characteristics of Observation Class ROVs:
Small size and lightweight design for easy deployment and manoeuvrability in tight spaces.
High-definition cameras and lighting systems for capturing clear images and video of the underwater environment.
Various sensors for collecting data such as water temperature, salinity, and currents.
May be equipped with manipulator arms for simple tasks like collecting samples or moving objects.
Relatively low operational cost compared to other types of ROV.
Capacity and Capabilities
Observation class ROVs (or ObsROVs) are suited to a wide range of underwater tasks, including:
Subsea Infrastructure Inspections: Equipped with advanced sensors and cameras, observation class remote operated vehicles are utilised for underwater inspection of engineering structures such as pipelines, cables, and foundations. These ROVs offer a non-intrusive method to assess the integrity of these structures, identifying potential issues like leaks, corrosion, and other forms of damage. Additionally, ROVs can perform maintenance tasks, including cleaning and repairing pipelines, ensuring the optimal functionality and longevity of subsea infrastructure.
Seabed and underwater survey: By deploying Obs ROVs, comprehensive seabed surveys can be conducted, providing detailed mapping of the terrain. This information is crucial in identifying potential hazards and locating valuable resources. Before the construction of offshore structures such as wind farms or oil and gas facilities, these surveys are essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of operations. Additionally, Obs ROVs can collect seabed samples for scientific research, contributing to a deeper understanding of the marine environment.
Scientific research: Obs ROVs are used by scientists to study the marine environment. They can be used to observe marine life, collect samples, and measure environmental parameters.
Diver support: Observation ROVs are regularly used to support diving operations. Their presence not only helps divers but they offer a significant safety enhancement by providing a remote set of ‘eyes’ during diving operations. The presence of ROVs during diving operations has in some cases, saved the lives of divers in difficulty.
Critical Factors
Choosing the right OBSROV for your specific requirements is crucial to ensure efficient and successful operations. In this guide, we present key criteria to consider when selecting an observation ROV, enabling you to make an informed decision that aligns with your unique needs and applications.
Payload Capacity:
When deploying an ROV, it is essential to consider the equipment and payloads that will be used. Different ROVs have varying payload capacities, ranging from limited to more substantial. For example, the Seaeye Tiger has a 32 kg payload capacity, the DWTEK I90+ has a 40 kg payload capacity, and larger systems like the Cougar XT or Panther have a payload capacity of around 100 kg.
Manoeuvrability:
Assess the operating environment where you'll be using the ROV. Factors such as water currents, visibility, and confined spaces influence the manoeuvrability required. Some ROVs feature advanced control capabilities, including omnidirectional movement and auto-control.
Technological Features:
Evaluate the technological features and capabilities of the ROV. Consider factors such as camera quality, lighting, sensor integration, and data transmission capabilities. Advanced features like sonar, laser scanning, and autonomous navigation systems can enhance the ROV's functionality.
Depth Rating:
Determine the maximum depth at which you'll be operating the ROV. ROVs have different depth ratings, and choosing one that exceeds your intended depth needs ensures safe and reliable operation.
Power and Endurance:
Consider the power source and endurance of the ROV. Battery-powered ROVs offer portability and flexibility, while tethered ROVs provide continuous power but require a surface support vessel. Endurance refers to the operational time before requiring a battery change or recharging.
Size and Portability:
Evaluate the size and portability of the ROV, especially if you will be working in remote locations. Smaller, compact ROVs (including MiniRovs) are easier to transport and deploy, while larger ROVs may offer increased capabilities but require more logistical support and a higher rated power supply.
Operating Personnel:
Make sure that there are adequately trained personnel available to operate, maintain and repair the ROV.
ObsROV Manufacturers and Models
When looking to acquire an Observation class ROV (ObsROV) in the current market, you will find a number of options available. There are several well established manufacturers of ObsROVs worldwide, with Saab SeaEye and Forum Energy Technologies being the largest and well known today.
Saab Seaeye offers ObsROV models for various applications, including the Falcon for tight space inspections, Panther X-Plus for offshore construction, Cougar XT for specialized missions, and Sabertooth for autonomous underwater exploration. For example, the Seaeye Falcon is lightweight, just one meter long, and rated to a depth of 300m whereas the Tiger is a stable platform for observation and inspection, with interchangeable tool skids and available depths of 450m or 1000m with a Tether Management System.
Forum Energy Technologies, a leading supplier of electric observation-class ROVs, offers a range of models tailored for diverse underwater exploration needs. These include the Mohican, well-suited for confined spaces; the Super Mohawk, robust for offshore tasks and the Comanche, offering capabilities closer to a workclass ROV.
Forum's Observation-Class ROVs are renowned for quality, reliability, capability, and performance, operating in the world's harshest environments and performing various underwater tasks, including observation, survey, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), inspections, and specialized tooling applications. Each model has unique features and capabilities, such as the Mohican's 'dynamic vector' feature for agile maneuvering and the Super Mohawk's robustness and high payload capacity.
You may want to consider alternatives to Saab Seaeye or Forum for a number of reasons which may be technical, operational or financial. For instance, The DWTEK I90+ Observation Class ROV is an award-winning system designed for a variety of tasks. It excels at general and close-up visual inspections (GVI and CVI) thanks to its high-definition camera and powerful lights. This makes it ideal for inspecting infrastructure like dams and wind farm supports, where monitoring for damage and accretion is crucial.
The I90+ is a versatile machine, capable of operating in depths of up to 1000 meters, and in challenging environmental conditions. With a weight of 250 kg, it has the mass to withstand higher current velocities. Its modular design allows it to be equipped with various tools to suit the job. These can include additional cameras, manipulators for repairs, and cleaning brushes. Furthermore, its easy deployment and retrieval systems streamline what can otherwise be a difficult process.
What can we do for you?
Remotely operated vehicles can be extremely complicated systems that require comprehensive evaluation before purchase, particularly when it comes to used equipment. Technical, operational, financial and strategic considerations mean that the right level of understanding is required to support an acquisition (or indeed rental).
At Dockstr, our strong commercial and technical backgrounds have helped many customers make the right decision by supporting their equipment-related needs in the area of remote intervention. Therefore, if you are thinking of investing or divesting in this specialised area of subsea engineering, we can offer support at various levels to achieve the right outcome for your business.
