ROV is the acronym for remotely operated underwater vehicles. They can be deployed deep into the oceans to reach depths that are inaccessible by divers, as going too deep into the ocean carries huge risk for divers. There is also a limit to how long divers can stay underwater to carry out their required task. Thus, ROVs fill this gap and have a wide range of applications.
How Can ROVs Help Us? Different Applications of ROVs.
ROVs are controlled by personnel called pilots who operate the vehicle from a surface vessel. They can use advanced technology to get the ROVs to perform different tasks. ROVs are available in various sizes and with various capabilities to be used in a wide range of applications.
Applications of ROV
ROVs have different use cases in many industries. They can help to explore the world under water which cannot be done by humans alone. Here are some of the most common applications of ROVs.
Underwater Inspection
ROVs are widely used for underwater inspection in the oil & gas, aquaculture and shipping industries. Large underwater vehicles are deployed deep into the oceans for inspection oil wells, while smaller ROVs are used for inspecting infrastructures such as pipes and other equipment under water.
Search and Rescue Operations
ROVs are used by the fire department or the police to search for missing people or objects. Boats, ships, or automobiles that have met with an accident can also be traced using ROVs. The police can look for contraband or explosives as part of port security. In crime investigation, ROVs can help find evidence under water. All these tasks can be effectively performed without risking human life by sending divers under the seas to investigate.
STEM Education
Building ROVs and operating them can bring together the concepts of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This enables students to apply all these concepts and participate in innovative ideas. STEM approach is a preferred learning and development tool to empower students and to expose them to technology.
Underwater exploration
Getting a peek into how creatures live deep under the water in the midnight zone is only possible through ROVs with video capabilities that can travel underwater for long hours. They can also be used to explore ship wrecks.
Environmental research
The world deep beneath the oceans is largely unexplored. In the past, this world was only accessible to expert divers. However, ROVs, allow us to explore farther under the water and understand more about this fascinating environment. From studying underwater creatures to sampling vegetation, there is much to be learned. ROVs are vital to achieve this goal.
ROVs for repairs
There are several undersea cables installed for data transmission. Any loss of connectivity calls for repairs. While it might not be possible to send technicians underwater to carry out the repairs, ROVs can be sent underwater and controlled from the offshore to fix the issues. Even tasks such as welding can be performed by ROVs underwater.
These are just a few of the applications of ROVs. In order to get the best out of ROVs, it is necessary to safeguard data transmission connectivity. While data and power connectors suitable for underwater use are available, their reliability is vitally important.
Bulgin has a wide Range of Connectors suitable for underwater use. With a high Ingress Protection factor or IP rating, these connectors can provide secure transmission even underwater. These connectors can be customised for a specific use, and are robust and reliable. Sealing Caps are used to prevent ingress in unmated connectors in underwater applications.