Rovco live 3D visualization project awarded second phase of funding
BRISTOL, UK -- Rovco, has been awarded further funding to develop the next stage of its integrated live 3D vision and artificial intelligence (AI) survey technology. This brings the combined total in technology grants for the UK subsea services company to $1.82 million (£1.46 million).
The funding has been awarded by Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency. The next stage, AUV3D Phase 2 continues from the successful Phase 1 project and trials proving the technology at the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult’s test center.
In collaboration with ORE Catapult and ScottishPower Renewables, the funding will support additional research into the cutting-edge 3D vision technology by applying machine learning and AI based analysis to 3D survey and cable burial data.
During the 18-month project, Rovco aims to achieve live transmission of 3D subsea models to shore. As the project progresses Rovco will also commercialize its proven technology, bringing pioneering subsea survey technology to market in live 3D computer vision.
Rovco predicts the integrated technology, which utilizes advanced computer vision and AI systems with ROV platforms, could transform the way offshore inspections are carried out and reduce costs by millions each year.
Brian Allen, Rovco chief executive and founder, said, “We are excited to be partnering with ORE Catapult again and ScottishPower Renewables to deliver cutting-edge live 3D vision technology to the subsea market.
“The Innovate UK funding will enable our disruptive tech to be brought to market, bringing tangible benefits to the industry in terms of significant cost and time savings. Securing this funding follows months of commercial testing and is testament to the strength of the technology and the unique offering we have developed at Rovco.
“R&D is a key focus for us and over the next year we are planning on doubling our R&D team to ensure we continue to be at the forefront of new technology. Our aim is to develop a system which delivers a step change in subsea survey, brings greater efficiencies to underwater projects, and enables full autonomy.”
With an expanding fleet of ROVs, Rovco has the resources required to provide subsea surveys and inspections anywhere in the world. Offering a unique approach to technical subsea challenges, Rovco has the expertise to deliver a high quality and efficient solution for underwater hydrographic survey and inspection services.
