Underwater robots capable of predicting waves in real-time could lower the costs associated with generating offshore renewable energy, according to a recent study.
Researchers highlight that new technology, which allows robots to operate efficiently in rough seas, could enhance the speed, safety, and cost-effectiveness of maintaining offshore wind and tidal turbines.
The erratic nature of waves has previously limited robotic involvement in the maintenance of offshore platforms, as it complicates stable operation and precise actions.
By deploying autonomous robots for routine upkeep tasks, the researchers believe that the costs linked to renewable energy production could be significantly reduced compared to fossil fuel sources.
This shift could also streamline operations, which usually require ships, helicopters, or lifting equipment from the water, and reduce the risks posed to workers in hazardous environments.
Engineers from the University of Edinburgh have created innovative computational and experimental tools allowing autonomous robots to maintain a steady position in the midst of chaotic waves.
The team tested their system in the University’s FloWave testing facility, utilizing wave data from a buoy in the North Sea to replicate real-world conditions that the robots might face.
Wave sensors anchored to the seabed measure the height and direction of approaching waves, sending this information in real-time to nearby robots. This enables the unmanned machines to anticipate and counteract potential disruptions in the water, ensuring they stay stable.
The results show that this system is effective for robots operating at both surface and greater depths, where wave disturbances can still have a significant impact.
This new approach enhances traditional control systems, which tend to respond reactively. These conventional systems often struggle with the rapidly changing nature of ocean disturbances, making them less reliable in such challenging conditions.
Dr. Kyle Walker, who developed this system as part of his Ph.D. at the University of Edinburgh, stated: “A significant challenge today is robots’ ability to effectively sense and counter environmental disturbances, which limits the use of smaller subsea vehicles. By predicting future wave movements and incorporating this into the control system, we can extend their operational capability without altering the robot’s hardware.”
“This advancement is incredibly beneficial for applying this technology in real-world scenarios and makes our system relevant for most existing vehicles on the market.”
Future investigations will focus on enhancing autonomous robots’ skills to perform accurate tasks, like using robotic arms for rust detection or electrical repairs while maintaining a steady position in the water.
This study, published in the International Journal of Robotics Research, was funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.
This research builds on the now-completed ORCA Hub project, aimed at facilitating the transition to green energy, led by Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh.
Dr. Francesco Giorgio-Serchi from the University of Edinburgh’s School of Engineering, who led this research, remarked: “Increasing the deployment of autonomous robots for the upkeep of offshore renewable facilities could greatly reduce the costs of producing clean energy. Further advancements in this technology could significantly boost the use of unmanned robots at sea and enhance automation within the offshore industry.”
