Dismantling naval mines (underwater explosives) is known to be a dangerous task.
This is why RE2 Robotics, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is designing a robotic system to perform this essential work.
Under a $9.5 million contract awarded by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) in the United States, RE2 will serve as the systems integrator for the Automated Underwater Mine Neutralization System (M2NS).
Robotic arms capable of operating at depths of 300 meters.
The system will include a set of Sapien Sea Class robotic arms from RE2, mounted on a Defender ROV (remotely operated vehicle) produced by VideoRay, based in Pennsylvania.
M2NS will also integrate RE2’s Detect computer vision software, enabling it to accurately locate mines. Subsequently, with the help of artificial intelligence software, the system will efficiently position a “neutralization device” on the mines.
A variety of sensors will enhance the system’s situational awareness and the robot’s autonomy, allowing it to better understand its surroundings.
In such contexts, the robot will be able to respond appropriately. Developed for ONR, each Sapien Sea Class arm is neutrally buoyant. With this capability, the robotic arm is said to be “dexterous like a human.”
These arms can operate at depths of 300 meters (984 feet), or even deeper with adjustments. Additionally, each arm can lift up to 5.2 kg (11.4 lbs) while submerged. However, this tool is unrelated to the inflatable arms previously developed by the company for similar applications.
Mr. Jorgen Pedersen – President and CEO of RE2 stated: “Detecting and neutralizing underwater improvised explosive devices (WBIEDs) and other underwater explosives is an extremely dangerous mission.
M2NS will enable the Navy to autonomously search for and neutralize targets in deep waters, while experienced divers can monitor from a safe distance.”
Scientists express hope that once operational, M2NS could also be used for tasks such as inspecting and maintaining offshore oil rigs or other marine constructions. However, in the field of underwater mine neutralization, this system may need to compete with Saab’s existing Sea Wasp ROV.