Figure 79 Remotely operated vehicle, courtesy of BEAM.
Function
ROVs are used to inspect wind farm underwater structures.Â
Who supplies them
Manufacturers: ECA Hytec, Saab Seaeye and Seatronics.
Operators: BEAM, Fugro, James Fisher Marine Services and Verlume HonuWorx.
Key facts
Inspection class ROVs are used to inspect the foundation below the water line and the cable route, particularly in areas at risk of scour or other sea bed movements, and at other high risk locations, such as crossings with other cables.
Inspection ROVs typically have a speed of 3-5 kn, weigh 8-12 kg and have dimensions 1 m x 0.7 m x 0.5 m.
They are equipped with propulsion systems, lighting and a range of imaging equipment.
ROVs are launched form a DP2 vessel equipped with an A frame or moon pool.
The communication between the operator and the vehicle is controlled by an umbilical or tether cable, transmit electrical power, optical signals and mechanical payloads. It strengthened, usually with steel wire, to support the mechanical loads of the ROV underwater.
The development and use of unmanned subsea inspection vessels is an area of innovation.
What’s in it
- Propulsion system
- Control system
- Remote camera
- Lighting system
- Power supply
- Manipulator arm