Underwater Robotics
Phoenix develops underwater robotics for applications where commercial systems either do not exist or do not meet specific mission requirements. Our designs have successfully operated in the unusual and challenging environments represented by 6,000 m water depths, highly restrictive and hazardous spaces within ship wrecks and sea chests, and the rigors of a submarine launch.
Examples of different types of Underwater Robotics Phoenix engineers have designed and built are:
REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLES, ROVs
Phoenix engineers begin ROV designs using a systems level approach, examining the most efficient means to accomplish the mission requirements.
This systems approach leads to a compact vehicle that best utilizes the available technology such as: transmitting surface power to the vehicle versus carrying onboard batteries; the use of pressure tolerant electronics versus use of atmospheric housings; or use of fiber optics or electrical conductors to transmit the vehicle’s telemetry data.
Phoenix’s offshore experienced engineering staff also works to incorporate commercially proven components into their designs whenever possible, but will adapt them for the marine environment as required or invent solutions if commercial solutions are unavailable.
Phoenix engineers have experience designing and building ROVs ranging in size from the micro to work class, with depth capabilities ranging from 9mt to 6,000m (30 to 20,000 ft). Phoenix designed ROVs include our own REMORA 6000, and xBot, the US Navy’s CURV 21, and NOAA’s science ROV.
Phoenix Engineering provides end-to-end solutions for the design, assembly, testing and deployment of Work Class ROVs capable of 6,000m (20,000ft) operational depths with all facets of maintenance and operation in mind.
Phoenix Engineering can find solutions for all support equipment including the operator’s console and launch and recovery systems (LARS). In addition to new designs; replacements, modifications and upgrades can be developed and implemented to existing equipment.
Here are some examples of work class ROVs designed and built by Phoenix International:
REMORA 6000 ROV
Type: Open Frame Work Class ROV
ROV Dimensions: 5.6′L × 3.3′W × 3.9′H [170cm × 100cm × 118cm] (without tether)
ROV Weight in Air: 1, 985 lb [900kg]
Depth Rating: 20,000 fsw [6000m]
Power: 35kVA total system maximum
Thrusters: 25 Hp electric-hydraulic
Manipulators: 2 ea. Six function, rate controlled
Lighting: 4 x ROS 250 watt lights (variable-intensity)
NOAA ROV
Type: Open Frame Work Class ROV
ROV Dimensions: 10′L × 6′W × 8′H [304.8cm × 182.9 × 243.8cm] (without tether)
ROV Weight in Air: 7,500 lb [3402kg]
Depth Rating: 20,000fsw [6000m]
Power: 55kVA total system maximum
Vehicle Payload: 250 lb [113.4kg] in seawater (at max. operating depth)
Hydraulics: 10 Hp (5 GPM @ 3000psi)
Manipulators: 2 ea. 150 lb [68kg] at full reach
CURV21 ROV
Type: Open Frame Work Class ROV with Camera Platform Depressor
ROV Dimensions: 8′L × 5′W × 7′H [243cm × 152cm × 213.4cm] (without tether)
ROV Weight in Air: 6,400 lb [2903kg]
Depth Rating: 20,000fsw [6000m]
Power: 45 HP
Vehicle Payload: 240 lb [109.8kg] in seawater (at max. operating depth)
Hydraulics: 10 Hp (5 GPM @ 3000psi)
Manipulators: 2 ea. 150 lb [68kg] at full reach
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