With every major purchase, you look at which option will best meet your needs. Buying an ROV is no exception. With this article, we’ll help you understand the subtle differences between each Deep Trekker model and how they can be useful for specific projects.

What is an ROV?

ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) are underwater robotic vehicles used to observe the depths of large bodies of water by operators from the shore. Underwater ROVs are used in various sectors. They are used to capture images during inspections in ports, to carry out pipe inspections, to locate underwater targets, to take water samples or to carry out physical maintenance. By using ROVs, you can perform these tasks without having to hire expensive divers.

How much does an ROV cost?

ROVs can cost from a few thousand dollars to millions of dollars. As is often the case, spending more usually means having more options. Even if they are not necessarily better suited to the task you need them for. So how much an ROV will cost, depends on the expected use and the core task functions. Evaluate the most integral functions for you project in advance and then choose the most cost-effective package that meets those requirements.

For example, do you need an ROV suitable for industrial environments? Then there are several packages with add-ons such as UBSL, DVL, environmental and sonar sensors. These offer enhanced automation, tracking, vision, and depth functions. However, ask yourself if the project in question needs these high-end features, as they come at a much higher cost. To be specific, navigation packages using DVL and USBL can cost $ 20,000 to $ 100,000 more, depending on range and precision. The implementation of sonars, on the other hand, varies between $ 6,000 and $ 300,000. Simple inspections in standing water, for example, benefit more from cheaper basic packages designed to get underwater images quickly and easily.

Remotely operated vehicles can be divided into several categories. Mini and micro class ROVs are swimming cameras that work great when you need fast and effective eyes underwater. You will quickly pay a few thousand to 40,000 dollars for them, depending on how advanced the model needs to be and the elements you add. ROVs in the inspection and observation class are distinguished by their extensive equipment such as advanced sensors, samplers, and tools. Their prices range from $ 15,000 to $ 250,000. Finally, you have the Light Work Class and Work Class ROVs. These are equipped with large cranes, (usually) great depth capacities (thousands of metres) and powerful manipulator arms that can construct, weld and much more. These ROVs are best suited for heavy industrial use and cost between $ 250,000 and millions of dollars. They often require specialised operator training, heavy support equipment and ships. 

Considerations in choosing an ROV

As you can read, ROVs are incredibly versatile devices that can perform a wide range of tasks. Therefore, there are different features and extras that can be extremely useful for some industries, and not for others. For example, if an ROV is used to inspect storage tanks in a controlled still water environment, its needs are very different to those of a search and rescue (SAR) team operating in open water.

So, evaluate which features are most important for the day-to-day tasks in your sector. ROVs can be equipped with extras such as environmental sensors, thickness gauges, positioning systems, sonar, cleaning tools and many more. Determine what is needed for your specific project and then choose the most cost-effective model/package to meet those needs.

• Portability

Depending on the amount of travel or operational manoeuvring, it is important to consider the form factor of an ROV. For example, mini ROVs fit in a single suitcase for air travel and check in as a bag. They are also light enough to carry while climbing a ladder. Larger ROVs in observation or work class may have additional features, but they can be completely useless for remote work environments.

• ROV control by flow

Still water environments, such as water tank inspections, have little or no current, making it ideal for mini ROVs to perform inspections there. For offshore or high flow situations, more advanced observation class models are required as they offer better control in strong currents. However, it is not just the size or power of the ROV that determines whether it can operate in a current. Like humans, ROVs can work smarter and not harder by using their sensor fusion and maximising their positioning capabilities through hu intuitive software.

• Water clarity

Ideally, every ROV should have an imaging sonar. It is an incredibly useful tool for most missions as it helps identify large objects at distances of up to 120 metres (394 ft). In addition, it provides clarity about objects in murky water. However, the reality is that imaging sonars can cost upwards of $ 20,000 and not every project or application needs a sonar to be effective. Think of clear water of enclosed areas where you can easily get visual references.

• Depth rating

Do you work a lot of depth? Then always check the ROV depth class before purchasing one. If the main purpose of an ROV is to inspect or retrieve deep-sea objects such as seismic nodes, the depth rating should be sufficient. Deep Trekker has ROVs up to 305 metres depth and Tether up to 700 metres depth. Large Work Class ROVs, on the other hand, can work up to a depth of 11,000 metres!

Choose the right ROV for your sector

• Aquaculture

ROVs are often used in aquaculture for net/mooring inspections and maintenance, mort pushing and taking environmental samples. Simple inspections can be done with a basic mini ROV set-up. However, adding USBL positioning, or course/depth sensors helps provide location information for points of interest. This gives you a more robust inspection system. You also reduce dive times by providing precise positioning of fractures or other points of interest. You can also provide a grab arm for retrieving objects or for using instruments such as net patch kits, mortar grabs or water quality sensors to build up a dissolved oxygen profile. The DTG3 package (see below) and the PIVOT Smart are often used as a cost-effective ROV solution for these tasks.

• Infrastructure (Civil Engineering)

For inspections of dams, inlets, bridges, and piles, it is important to know the typical clarity of the water. If the water is relatively calm and clear, you can perform the visual inspection with a mini ROV like the DTG3. Do these inspections require more details of the structure? Or do they need to be carried out in challenging environments such as strong currents or turbid waters? Then a more powerful ROV with sonar functions is the solution. The DTG3 package or the PIVOT Expert with M3000 sonar are the most used for this purpose.

• Energy supply

When it comes to nuclear power, internal tank inspections are often carried out in clear water. Due to the inherent potential dangers involved, an accurate image is essential. Implementing high-quality zoom camera and enhanced 4K cameras are the key to successful nuclear inspections. Deep Trekker’s REVOLUTION, equipped with a 4K camera and zoom lens, is a popular system for this type of inspection.

In hydroelectric applications, do you want to inspect inlets or sluice gates for proper operation? Then a simple visual inspection with a mini ROV like the DTG3 can suffice. In this case, the PIVOT Expert with M3000 sonar is also often purchased. Those inspecting dams with higher flow rates and murkier water should use the more powerful REVOLUTION or PIVOT with sonar.

• Search & Rescue (SAR)

Search and identification missions are much more effective with imaging sonar. Having an ROV that can also tilt the sonar is a huge advantage. This allows the operator to change the angle and optimise the field of view for each situation. Is your budget limited? Then an ROV without sonar is still a useful tool as it also gives you quick eyes underwater. In addition to searching and verifying a drowning person or evidence lost overboard, ROVs can also assist in recovering victims. The operator can use an ROV’s grapple claw to grab the target and retrieve it by pulling on the ropes. The ROV pilot also has the option of attaching a carabiner with a line to the target. In the case of more sensitive retrieval operations, teams can also have the ROV held on the target and deploy divers to follow the tether down for extraction.

The REVOLUTION or PIVOT Expert with M1200 are excellent options for SAR missions. The M1200 sonar provides high quality images at up to 30 metres (98 ft). Experienced operators do not identify targets further than 30 metres away. This justifies the limited range of the M1200 compared to the M750 and M370 sonars, as the trade-off is better clarity for superior identification. The interlocking jaws (small and large) are also useful additions – compared to the teeth of the grappling claw – for finding victims or sensitive objects.

• Commercial diving

Ship inspection, ship maintenance, and marine damage control are all common uses of ROVs in commercial diving. Whether for emergency, security, or maintenance purposes … the first consideration in hull inspections is the strength of the opposing current. Mini ROVs, for example, can struggle in currents that observation-class ROVs such as the REVOLUTION and PIVOT can handle. Sonars can be a useful addition in this case for tasks in murky water but also on larger vessels to identify large defects or welded foreign objects. Common packages differ depending on the desired inspection scenario:

• Quick, simple inspections: DTG3 package or PIVOT Smart
  • Thorough inspections: REVOLUTION with M300 Imaging Sonar, Cygnus layer thickness gauge, CP Probe.
  • Bonus tool: the DT640 MAG Crawler with M3000 Imaging Sonar is an excellent tool for hull inspections because it is attached to the surface being inspected. It is also not affected by strong currents and is a great addition to an ROV.

ROVs are an effective way to expand or improve the business of a diving company. You can offer a wider range of services and have the customer choose the guaranteed safety of ROV inspections.

Many projects for commercial diving teams require pre-inspections, bid surveys to evaluate the budget for the project or may benefit from an extra pair of eyes for dive monitoring. A simple mini ROV like the DTG3 can be an interesting asset in this case.

ROVs can also be used to detect unexploded ordnance and mines underwater. An ROV with imaging sonar is essential here. Since these missions can cover long distances, USBL for positioning and autonomous capability are also extremely useful. In this case, the PIVOT NAV and REVOLUTION NAV with M750 Imaging Sonars are very popular due to the long-range capabilities of the sonar and the in-depth navigation function.

Deep Trekker offers a comprehensive range of ROVs suitable for all the above and for almost any budget. With pre-designed packages and customisable add-ons, it is easy to build the perfect ROV to meet your specific needs.

What is the difference between Deep Trekker’s ROVs?

Deep Trekker’s range of ROVs includes the DTG3, PIVOT and REVOLUTION. The DTG3 is a mini underwater ROV in observation class that can be quickly deployed to perform visual inspections in underwater environments. Its light weight offers exceptional portability but limits its ability and capabilities to perform DVL sensor upgrades or an integrated tool platform. This ROV employs a three-thruster design. This means that the user must manipulate the pitch or yaw for vertical and lateral movements. The DTG3 is an excellent affordable option for simple underwater inspections.

The PIVOT and REVOLUTION are also ROVs in the observation class. Constructed from carbon fibre and stainless steel, the REVOLUTION delivers impressive power, enhanced capabilities, and inspiring performance in harsh conditions. The PIVOT has a similar design but is smaller in size, making it more portable and easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces. Both models use six vector-propelled thrusters for vertical and lateral movement and are equipped with rotating tool platforms that can perform a variety of tasks.

REVOLUTION ROV

The REVOLUTION is the most powerful, intelligent, and stable ROV in the Deep Trekker range. Its six vectored thrusters provide unparalleled control in tough underwater conditions. Combined with its 305-metre depth rating, the REVOLUTION is ideal for complex, deep ocean missions.

The integrated camera and grab arm can rotate up to 260 degrees. This wide field of view means seamless transitions of focus points. The pilot can look up during a hull inspection, turn to scan a wall, pan across the seabed, or get the best angle to manipulate an object. All without changing the position of the ROV.

A favourite feature of many operators is the rotary capability when adding an imaging sonar. With this add-on, you can adjust the angle to sweep targets and get precise viewing angles. With its stable design and vertical thrusters that allow for side-to-side movement, the REVOLUTION delivers excellent performance with USBL and sonar.

You can also count on a battery operating time of up to 6 hours when fully charged. Thanks to the quick-change battery system, it’s also very easy to change the battery in the field in less than a minute.

• REVOLUTION-basic package

Includes the BRIDGE integrated controller + SD card + the ROV itself. The package includes a 260-degree rotating camera and gripper, LED spotlights and a 10 cm laser scaler for accurate object size estimation. The battery pack and spare set allow for efficient changing during longer missions.

You can change the batteries in just 30 seconds and charge them for one and a half to three hours. This means that you have virtually unlimited power if you charge the batteries in between. Prefer constant direct current? Then there is a direct current option for both the REVOLUTION and the PIVOT ROVs.

The basic REVOLUTION package also includes a 300-metre cable on a cable reel, but this can be upgraded to 700 metres. To bring everything together, two sturdy Pelican cases are included in which the entire system can be stored, an excellent portability for such an advanced system.

• REVOLUTION NAV Pack

The REVOLUTION NAV Pack includes everything in the basic package and adds advanced control capabilities with USBL and DVL sensors. These make it possible to track the ROV on a map, log points of interest, draw a trail, plan missions, and even create autonomous routes with the mission planner function. This means that the NAV package can navigate to set targets and perform pre-programmed routes, allowing the pilot to concentrate on the camera and sonar feeds instead of the controls.

In addition, these sensors can enable auto-depth from the seabed and produce GPX and CSV files to store location data during use. The NAV package also includes a service parts kit and a two-year extended warranty for a fully comprehensive experience.

PIVOT

The perfect balance between size and power. The PIVOT has an impressive design with six thrusters, powered by replaceable lithium-ion batteries, and a depth rating of 305 metres, just like the REVOLUTION. Unlike the REVOLUTION, the PIVOT is 13.4% smaller and weighs only 37 lbs, compared to the REVOLUTION’s 57 lbs.

The camera and tool platform on the PIVOT operate on separate pivot fields. The camera can rotate up to 220 degrees for a wide field of view to perform a variety of tasks. The 97-degree rotating tool platform gives pilots the advantage of flexible imaging options and easy tool manipulation from a stable position. With similarities in control and stability to the REVOLUTION, the PIVOT also delivers excellent performance with USBL’s, DVL’s and imaging sonars.

• PIVOT Smart-package

Includes the BRIDGE integrated controller + SD card + the ROV itself. It features the 220-degree rotating camera head, six precision thrusters and LED floodlights to illuminate your targets.

The Smart package comes with a 100-metre tether on a reel and a battery for immediate use. You’ll also receive two rugged Pelican carry bags to store the entire system in for enhanced portability. This package is the ideal basic set-up for visual inspections in high flow conditions, while keeping the overall cost down.

• PIVOT Expert package

The PIVOT Expert package includes everything listed in the Smart package and adds the 97-degree tiltable tool platform. The tool platform can accommodate a variety of attachments, and here comes with a gripper claw. Upgrading to the Expert package means that you get a 150-metre tether instead of 100 metres, and a set of spare batteries that you can quickly swap out to conserve energy during long missions.

• PIVOT NAV package

The NAV package is the most comprehensive package offered for the PIVOT. In addition to everything included in the Expert package, it adds the same USBL and DVL sensors that enable advanced navigation functions of the REVOLUTION NAV. USBL and DVL sensors allow you to follow the ROV on a map, log points of interest and track, plan missions and create autonomous routes via the mission planner. These sensors also can produce extensive GPX and CSV data for reports. For peace of mind, the NAV package also include a service kit, a 300-metre cable, and an extended two-year warranty.

Add-ons for both REVOLUTION and PIVOT

The most common add-ons for the PIVOT and REVOLUTION are:

• Imaging sonar systems

With over half a dozen options available, these help with navigation and target identification in dark conditions.

• Manipulator and Water Sampler Bundles

Grab claws, water/sediment samplers, scissors and auger pushers ensure the ROVs are ready for a range of physical tasks.

• Thickness gauges

The Cygnus thickness gauge integration allows the operator to assess the thickness of steel on tanks, hulls, or other metal surfaces.

• Environmental sensors

Water quality probes and dissolved oxygen sensors provide insight into important parameters such as temperature/conductivity, pH/ORP or chlorophyll A.

• Extended tethers

With upgrades available up to 700 metres, extended tethers are optimal for longer range projects.

DTG3

The DTG3 represents the ultimate in ROV portability. A cost-effective alternative to the PIVOT or REVOLUTION, the DTG3 offers the same exceptional full HD (4K upgradeable) camera in a durable yet lightweight 18 lbs. vehicle. Ready for expedition straight out of the box, the DTG3 can be deployed in less than 30 seconds. With a battery operating time of up to eight hours, you can work all day long.

This ROV is equipped with three thrusters and a patented pitch system that allows for flexible operation and rapid descent. The DTG3’s 270-degree rotating camera provides a huge field of view for ship hulls, seabeds, and everything in between, without the need to manoeuvre the thrusters.

The entire ystem fits into a single rugged Pelican case that can be carried as checked luggage while travelling, providing unparalleled portability. With a price tag of $ 8,500, the DTG3 offers industrial quality accompanied by 5-star customer service at an aggressively competitive price.

• DTG3 package

Includes the intuitive BRIDGE integrated controller, a 64 GB SD card and a complete ROV system, all in a single case. It fits into a single case so you can take it anywhere.

The DTG3 package comes standard with a 75-metre-long tether and tether reel. However, you can upgrade to 200 metres on the supplied reel, and this can be increased to 700 metres on a larger reel. The DTG3 also comes with three sets of LED floodlights to illuminate your focal point during complex or dark inspection scenarios.

Common DTG3 extentions

The most common add-ons for the DTG3 are

• The gripper

A gripper arm allows the DTG3 to perform a variety of tasks, such as retrieving objects, holding tools, or deploying equipment.

• Laser scaler

Two lasers spaced one inch apart provide instant size estimates during visual inspections.

• USBL positioning

The SeaTrac Ultra Short Baseline Locating system allows you to become aware of the relative position of your ROV and set waypoints during your dive.

• Thickness gauge

The assess the thickness of steel on tanks, ship hulls or other metal surfaces.

• Environmental sensors
  

Probes for water quality and sensors for dissolved oxygen provide insight into important parameters such as temperature/conductivity, pH/ORP or chlorophyll A.

• Extended tether

With upgrades to 700 metres, extended tui’s are optimal for longer range projects.

Deep Trekker’s universal product features

• BRIDGE technology

All packages include a splash-proof handheld controller with BRIDGE software, including a 64 GB SD card. BRIDGE technology consists of Deep Trekker’s custom hardware, software, and integration capabilities. It leverages the processing power of a multi-core processor to provide an intuitive graphical interface. It does this alongside impressive integration of Oculus sonars, USBL positioning and other advanced sensors for better control.

BRIDGE enables things like sensor fusion, optimising positioning sensors, and camera enhancements such as underwater image optimisation, auto-stabilisation and zero latency. The latter allows for easy control without the latency seen on drones controlled by a mobile device.  

• 1080p or 4K camera modules

Each ROV package is equipped with a standard 1080p camera and the option to upgrade to an enhanced custom 4K camera. The full HD 1080p standard camera is an excellent choice for a wide range of tasks, and benefits from a smaller file size for longer videos.

The enhanced 4K camera upgrade delivers incredibly sharp videos to distinguish any fine details or irregularities during underwater inspections. The ultra-wide lens on the 4K upgrade also allows more content to fit on the screen, providing superior detail at shorter focal lengths.

• Intuitive controller with multi-feed display

Full integration with sonar and positioning systems means you can view your underwater sonar, chart positioning and video feed all on one easy-to-read screen. If you want to expand your displays to larger screens, you can quickly connect a laptop or monitor via HDMI to the controller.

Each package also includes the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor package, which can display depth, course, pitch, roll, turn count and water temperature. The IMUS, pressure sensors and magnetic compass combined with BRIDGE technology provide stabilisation functions such as automatic depth, automatic heading, and active yaw stabilisation. Active yaw stabilisation helps the ROV pilot drive straight through water to a target, even in strong currents.

Interested in an ROV from Deep Trekker? Then we will gladly put together your ideal vehicle.

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