Scope and feasibility of autonomous robotic subsea intervention systems for offshore inspection, maintenance and repair

Abstract

This paper explores the operation of autonomous systems for the targeted inspection and intervention in offshore environments in order to minimise manned, at sea, marine operations. The joint operation of Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs) and Remotely Operated underwater Vehicles (ROVs) will require artificial intelligence to assess and action situations in the challenging marine environment around sub-sea infrastructures. ROVs are typically controlled by human operators to install, maintain, inspect, and repair subsea infrastructures. With increased numbers of offshore installations, e.g. offshore wind installations, the need for subsea interventions continues to rise worldwide. The increase in demand for subsea interventions using human activities will impact on cost and increase the risk of incidence. As such, dedicated R&D is increasing to develop safe and reliable autonomous solutions to optimize subsea inspection, maintenance and repair (IMR) operations. An autonomous robotic inspection and intervention system would significantly challenge the existing methodologies to increase safety and reduce costs.