by Mat Dirjish
Autonomous subsea robotics and software developer Nauticus Robotics introduces the first prototype of its next-generation electric manipulator. The component is purpose-built for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and next-generation robotic systems. Simultaneously, and in collaboration with an industry partner, the company continues development of the Olympic Arm electric manipulator for traditional remote operated vehicle applications.
Contrasting conventional hydraulic systems, Nauticus’ modular electric manipulator architecture promises to reduce maintenance complexity, improve reliability, minimize downtime, and lower operating costs. The prototype features a modular three-joint configuration that serves as the foundation for five-joint and seven-joint versions capable of supporting more complex subsea operations.
Employing the company’s ToolKITT software, the manipulator will autonomously recognize work sites, identify intervention points, compensate for changing underwater conditions, and execute precision manipulation tasks with less operator input. Combining intelligent perception with autonomous vehicle positioning and manipulator control, Nauticus believes the system can perform complex underwater intervention tasks with greater efficiency and consistency than traditional operator-controlled designs.
Ameen Albadri, Nauticus Robotics’ Vice President of Engineering, explains, “Autonomous underwater intervention requires more than attaching a manipulator to a vehicle. It requires hardware and software designed together from the beginning. Our next-generation electric manipulator is specifically for autonomous operations, combining a simplified modular mechanical architecture with intelligent perception and control software. We believe this integrated approach will unlock new levels of efficiency, reliability, and capability for underwater robotics while expanding the range of autonomous tasks that subsea vehicles can perform.”
Nauticus expects to continue refining the hardware architecture while expanding the platform into five-joint and seven-joint configurations. For deeper dives, visit the Nauticus Robotics website.
Mat Dirjish Online 