A project that is developing artificial intelligence (AI) and control systems that enable underwater robots to operate autonomously in turbulent seas to maintain offshore wind turbines is currently being undertaken by researchers at Heriot-Watt University and Imperial College London.

Under the Underwater Intervention for Offshore Renewable Energies (UNITE) project, the technology is undergoing trials and promises to reduce the need for large maintenance vessels in offshore wind farm operations. The project also promises to lead to fully remote operations, thereby enhancing safety by reducing the need for personnel to work in hazardous offshore environments.

Source: Heriot Watt University

The research team explained: “Our trials are showing promising results in enabling underwater robots to maintain stable contact with offshore structures in challenging conditions. If successful, the technology could transform offshore wind maintenance, potentially reducing fuel consumption of maintenance missions by up to 97% - from 7,000 liters per day to just 200 liters. This could significantly lower both operational costs and the carbon footprint of maintenance.”

Further, the researchers suggest that the autonomous underwater robots might eventually be able to perform maintenance tasks on offshore wind turbines such as taking precise measurements, conducting visual inspections, cleaning structures and repairing defects.

Yet, in order to achieve autonomous operation, the researchers sought to keep the robot's arm or tool steady against a structure despite being buffeted by currents and waves. To do this, advanced control systems and machine learning algorithms are currently being developed to enable robots to adapt in real-time to such conditions.

Under the project, 3D semantic mapping capabilities are also being developed that would allow robots to create detailed maps of underwater environment, thereby enhancing a robot’s ability to navigate complex structures and identifying components that need attention.