Remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) and hydrographic survey company Rovco predicts its integrated technology that utilizes advanced 3D computer vision and artificial intelligence (AI) systems with ROV platforms could transform the way offshore inspections are carried out and reduce costs by millions each year.
The U.K. based firm, which has been working to advance the technology, has recently been awarded further funding by the U.K.’s innovation agency, Innovate UK, to develop the next stage of its integrated live 3D vision and AI survey technology.
The funding will support the project's next stage, AUV3D Phase 2, which continues from the Phase 1 project and trials proving the technology at the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult’s test center. In collaboration with the ORE Catapult test center and ScottishPower Renewables, Rovco will conduct additional research into the 3D vision technology by applying machine learning and AI based analysis to 3D survey and cable burial data. During the 18-month project, Rovco aims to achieve live transmission of 3D subsea models to shore.
Additionally, as the project progresses, Rovco will commercialize its technology.
Brian Allen, Rovco chief executive and founder, said, “The Innovate UK funding will enable our disruptive tech to be brought to market, bringing tangible benefits to the industry in terms of significant cost and time savings. Securing this funding follows months of commercial testing and is testament to the strength of the technology and the unique offering we have developed at Rovco.”
To date, the subsea services company has received £1.46 million in combined technology grants.
Allen added, “R&D is a key focus for us and over the next year we are planning on doubling our R&D team to ensure we continue to be at the forefront of new technology. Our aim is to develop a system which delivers a step change in subsea survey, brings greater efficiencies to underwater projects, and enables full autonomy.”