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The Autonomous Inspection Drone (AID) from DeepOcean has been recognized with the OTC 2024 Spotlight on New Technology Award for providing more cost-efficient subsea inspections with higher-quality and more precise data. This innovative development is a collaboration between DeepOcean, Argus Remote Systems, and Vaarst, with support from Aker BP.
The AID is based on the Rover MK2 ROV from Argus, with upgraded hardware and software packages. The platform and navigation algorithm are managed by Argus, while DeepOcean handles the digital twin platform, mission planner software, and live view of the AID in operation. Vaarst contributed the machine vision camera Subslam 2x for autonomous navigation and data collection.
The drone measures 1.25 x 0.85 x 0.77 m and weighs 320 kg in air, making it compact yet capable of operating in water depths up to 3,000 m. It also has station-keeping and remote control capabilities, enabling efficient inspection operations.
During trials at Aker BP’s Alvheim Field in the Norwegian North Sea, the AID successfully inspected subsea trees and other infrastructure during a 10-day campaign. Operations were supervised remotely from both the Edda Fauna vessel and Remota’s remote operations center in Haugesund, Norway.
With its cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance during trials, the Autonomous Inspection Drone (AID) from DeepOcean is poised to revolutionize subsea inspection operations in the oil and gas industry.
