Scientists at Khalifa University in the UAE and Stanford University in the US have joined forces to create robots capable of performing critical tasks to protect the world’s oceans. These diver robots have been designed to monitor the health of coral reefs and conduct safety checks on offshore oil rigs. To replicate the harsh conditions of the deep sea, the robots have been tested in a newly launched robotics pool at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, which can simulate ocean waves and currents.
The robots will be operated remotely, allowing operators on the surface to experience tactile feedback through the robot’s hands. Professor Oussama Khatib, director of the Stanford Robotics Lab, explains, “When the robot reaches the sea bed, the operator is able to feel through the hands of the robot what the robot is touching.” This sensory capability enables precise and delicate interactions with the underwater environment.
The ultimate goal is to build robots and robotic submarines in Abu Dhabi and deploy them to explore ocean depths that are too dangerous for humans. Professor Khatib and his team brought the Ocean One robot, a 5-meter long humanoid robot, to the Middle East for testing in the robotics pool. Unlike traditional remotely operated vehicles used in deep-sea exploration, the Ocean One robot can replicate human movements and possesses mechanical fingers that allow it to work and communicate with divers.
The researchers at Khalifa University are also developing their own underwater robots to expand the capabilities of marine robotics. These machines can currently operate at a depth of 300 meters but will be enhanced to tackle deep-sea tasks, reducing the need for human divers to undertake risky missions. Professor Lakmal Seneviratne, director of the Khalifa University Centre for Autonomous Robotic Systems, expresses excitement about the potential of marine robotics, stating, “Marine robotics is the new frontier and we are excited to be at the forefront.”
This collaboration between universities in the UAE and the US is expected to advance the development of more autonomous robots capable of operating in extreme marine environments. These innovations will play a crucial role in protecting and preserving the world’s oceans.
Sources:
– The National: [Article Title](source_link)
– Khalifa University: https://fagenwasanni.com/lv/news/scientists-develop-diver-robots-to-monitor-coral-reefs-and-conduct-safety-checks-on-offshore-oil-rigs/265451/
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2023-09-23 03:40:54
#Scientists #Develop #Diver #Robots #Monitor #Coral #Reefs #Conduct #Safety #Checks #Offshore #Oil #Rigs
