SOURCE: AFI
Tamil Nadu-based XeraRobotics has introduced a breakthrough in marine robotics with its new remotely operated marine robot, ROMAR, designed to perform detailed inspections, research tasks, and maintenance in challenging underwater environments. Known as DeepDive in some configurations, this versatile marine robot boasts advanced features that enhance its adaptability, maneuverability, and precision, making it suitable for various underwater operations.
The development of ROMAR highlights India’s rising capabilities in robotics and autonomous technology, especially in sectors where reliable, high-precision underwater exploration is critical, such as offshore energy, marine research, and underwater infrastructure maintenance.
Key Features of ROMAR
ROMAR is built with state-of-the-art capabilities that make it a standout in the field of marine robotics. Let’s explore some of its notable features:
1. Modular Platform
ROMAR’s modular design allows it to adapt seamlessly to a wide range of tasks. Interchangeable modules let operators customize the robot for specific missions, making it suitable for everything from routine inspections to complex research operations. This flexibility minimizes downtime between missions, as the modules can be switched quickly to meet different operational needs, providing a cost-effective solution to the operators.
2. Position Hold Capability
One of the standout features of ROMAR is its Position Hold capability. This function ensures that the robot maintains a stable position underwater, which is essential for tasks that require precision, such as detailed inspections or repair work on underwater structures. With this capability, ROMAR can maintain stability even in currents or challenging underwater conditions, allowing for high-quality visual data capture and analysis.
3. Obstacle Avoidance System
ROMAR is equipped with advanced sensors that enable it to detect and avoid obstacles, ensuring safe navigation around underwater hazards. This system significantly reduces the risk of collisions and ensures smooth operation even in cluttered or challenging underwater environments. The obstacle avoidance feature is particularly useful for missions in areas with complex underwater topography, as it helps the robot navigate around rocks, coral, and man-made structures without incident.
4. 360° Rotation
For comprehensive coverage, ROMAR has 360° rotation capability, providing unparalleled maneuverability. This feature allows the robot to perform complete rotations, which is essential for inspecting hard-to-reach areas. Whether it’s scanning the hull of a ship, assessing underwater pipelines, or exploring unknown regions, ROMAR’s ability to rotate fully provides thorough and accurate data from all angles.
XeraRobotics’ development of ROMAR represents a significant achievement for the Indian robotics industry. India’s growing expertise in advanced robotics is instrumental in meeting the needs of industries that rely on safe and efficient underwater exploration and maintenance, including energy, defense, and environmental research.