A Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) is an unoccupied underwater robot connected to the surface via a series of cables. Those cables transmit commands and control signals between the operator and the ROV, allowing a remote navigation of the vehicle. A ROV can carry a video camera, lights, sonar systems and an articulated arm. This robotic arm can be used to collect small objects, cut lines or fix lifting hooks to bigger objects.
Even though there is a lot of different use for ROVs, some of their most common hydro-graphic applications include the identification and inspection of submerged objects. A ROV is not aimed at replacing divers’ hydro-graphic researches, but could serve as a substitute if divers are not available or if their safety is put to the question.
Thanks to the facility of its execution, a ROV can be used on different sites during the same day. Easy to move, it needs only few minutes to be operational.
A ROV can thus rapidly intervene in industrial confined environments (water tanks, immersed pipes, water reserves for emergencies, flooded tunnels…).
ROVs (remotely controlled vehicle) can intervene in various professional fields but as well in scientific researches contexts. Their use allows the realization of various missions within environments often hostile for humans.
The use of ROV represents the privileged solution to intervene in industrial closed spaces, as storage tanks inspections and the inspection of structures needing a regular check.