ecoSUB Robotics, a UK-based developer of compact autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), continues its innovation in marine robotics through advancements in sampling technology, deep water operations and international market expansion. These developments demonstrate ecoSUB's focus on offering cost-effective solutions for ocean exploration, environmental monitoring and offshore industries.
University of Southampton License Agreement Revolutionizes Underwater Sampling
The University of Southampton announced a licensing agreement with ecoSUB Robotics to commercialize an advanced underwater water sampler developed collaboratively by researchers at Southampton and ecoSUB engineers. This sampler allows autonomous collection at depths up to 2,500 meters while seamlessly integrating with ecoSUB's AUV fleet in multiple configurations.
Dr. Adrian Nightingale of the University of Southampton highlighted ecoSUB's contribution in providing sustainable solutions for hostile environments, while Terry Sloane, their Managing Director noted how their sampler expands mission capabilities by combining traditional sensors with physical samples while capitalizing on ecoSUB's vertical diving proficiency for an edge in mission capabilities. Applications span marine biogeochemistry, oceanography, environmental monitoring and offshore operations.
This partnership represents ongoing efforts to advance autonomous underwater exploration technologies.
EcoSUM25 AUV Sets New Record Dive at Madeira Trials
ecoSUBs ecoSUM25-Science AUV achieved an unprecedented depth of 2,002 meters when launched from Madeira's research vessel Observatoio 1. Operated by Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, its mission lasted one hour and 40 minutes with precise navigation maintaining a 125 meter gap between launch and recovery points.
Straight-down-and-up capability of the vehicle showcases its reliability for deep ocean missions, supported by systems onboard to ensure accurate positioning in challenging environments.
OCEANS 2024 Debut and Canadian Market Entry
ecoSUB Robotics made its inaugural international exhibition appearance at OCEANS 2024, showcasing cutting-edge AUV technology to global audiences. Terry Sloane reported sustained follow-up on opportunities and partnerships generated at this event; and there was considerable interest shown towards applications in marine research and underwater exploration applications.
EcoSUB recently appointed Teramara (formerly DASCO) as their distributor in Canada in order to broaden their support and presence throughout North America.
Squads of Adaptive Robots Project Illustrates Fleet Coordination
Planet Ocean recently completed their Squads of Adaptive Robots (SoAR) project, funded by Innovate UK and led by Planet Ocean. Featuring coordinated fleets of marine robots - including four ecoSUB AUVs - culminating in summer 2024 trials at Smart Sound Plymouth, with partners like Sonardyne International, HydroSurv, the National Oceanography Centre, etc. as key participants.
ecoSUB AUVs equipped with Sonardyne AvTrak 6 Nano transceivers conducted rapid environmental assessments alongside HydroSurvs REAV-60 USVs. AI-driven mission planning and real-time adaptations were managed from shore-based operations centers for optimal offshore wind sector efficiency with long-term cost savings in mind.
First Under-Ice Arctic Deployment
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) achieved an important milestone with its inaugural sub-ice dive using ecoSUB's ecoSUB-m5 AUV in the Arctic. This deployment highlights ecoSUBs suitability for extreme environments while broadening operational paradigms in polar research.