What is a ROV?
A ROV (remote operated vehicle) is an underwater vehicle controlled from the surface providing real time information to the operator. Providing communication between the surface and vehicle is an umbilical. Typically an operator uses a joy stick controller and television monitor for display of underwater images and data.
What would I do with a ROV?
The use of ROVs has become more and more common. A ROV is primarily used for visual inspection. Very large ROVs are capable of performing tasks with manipulator arms and tools. Any time there is a need for underwater inspection a ROV is useful. They help by reducing the risk of human life and a ROV can typically go deeper than a diver. A useful tool for divers as well. See the Applications part of this website for more ideas.
Why does a ROV have a cable?
The reason a ROV has a cable referred to as an umbilical is to provide power to the ROV, transmit video real time and data communications. Without an umbilical the ROV must have a battery which does not last as long.
Do I need training to operate a ROV?
There is no substitute for education. Today's ROVs are simpler to operate, however, an understanding of the fundamentals can best be learned through training and practice. All ROVs are a financial commitment and training will only enhance the commitment and help keep it operating correctly. In short training is highly recommended.
LBV Questions
What makes LBV better?
This is obviously an arguable question and the best answer is to evaluate all available ROVs and determine the best solution for your application. When evaluating different ROVs it is important to consider what you will actually be using the system for. Ask your self a few questions:
- How deep will I really be operating?
- What is the current like?
- What options will I need such as sonar, tracking, etc?
- Will I need to pick something up with the ROV?
By answering these few basic questions you will be better off in determining which ROV suits you best. For example if you are only operating at 150 meters or less you will likely only need a compact ROV. However, if you have a variety of sensors that are either heavy or large they may require a bigger ROV with more payload. The best suggestion is to contact SeaBotix to discuss your requirements.
Additionally, compare performance and features in the various ROV systems. While surface speed gives and indication of power it does not factor in the umbilical where the most drag occurs. Power to weight ratio in conjunction with umbilical drag is the best way to evaluate power. You can have all the power in the world but also an umbilical that needs all this power. More power smaller umbilical is the best choice.
Here are a few features of LBV to note when comparing to other ROV systems.
- Low cost - $14,995 USD starting point
- Powerful thrusters - 5.5kgf Bollard thrust standard
- Lateral thruster - movement in all axis
- Small diameter umbilical - 7.6mm
- 270 degree field of vision
- Video overlay - information display
- Auto functions - heading, depth and trim
- Intuitive controls - simplistic operation
How deep can LBV go?
SeaBotix manufacturers several systems. The standard system has a depth rating of 150 meters with additional depths rated to 300 and 1,500 meters (500, 1,000 and 5,000ft).
How long is the umbilical?
LBV systems come standard with 75 meters (250ft) of umbilical. The length can be increased to 750 meters (2,460ft). When considering umbilical length use the approximate working depth with enough excess to fly laterally.
How fast is LBV?
LBV is capable of 2.75 knots on the surface with standard thrusters and no umbilical dragging in the water. This is the industry standard for rating speed. However, it is not a good judge of power.
Power is specified by amount of thrust. LBV has 5.5kgf (12.13lbs) of forward thrust with the standard thrusters. Optional brushless DC thrusters are available offering 7kgf (15.43lbs). To properly appreciate the amount of power LBV has is best illustrated by it's 1:2 power to weight ration with standard thrusters and 1:1.6 with brushless thrusters.
The other major determining factor of how well a ROV will do is the diameter of the umbilical relating to the amount of power. Consider that when you have 50 to 100 meters of umbilical in the water there is significant amounts of drag. The smaller the diameter the better and LBV is one of the smallest at 7.4mm.
When testing a ROV be sure to test with an appropriate amount of umbilical in the water.
How big is LBV?
The LBV is a highly portable system by a single person. With an in air weight of 11kg (24lbs) and the umbilical only weighing an additional 5.5kg (12lbs) the LBV is the lightest combines system in its class.
How hard is LBV to operate?
LBV has been designed to be intuitive and simple to operate. With a thorough understanding of the controls and system a new user can expect to be relatively proficient in a few hours practice. Additionally, several features are implemented in LBV to make operation that much easier.
How safe is LBV?
The design of LBV takes into consideration safety of the operator and anyone in the water. Several devices are used to monitor electrical current should a fault occur. The surface power supply contains an isolation transformer, ground fault interrupter and electronic devices detecting current loss. Should a fault occur the LBV system cuts power. All systems are designed following the recognized safety guidelines "The safe use of electricity in water".
What are LBV's power requirements?
Understanding LBV will be operated all over the world we have designed the input to range from 90 to 250 volts. Simply plug LBVs Power Supply into the wall, 1 kW generator or inverter. There is no need for user adjustment for varying power input.
How much does LBV cost?
The cost of LBV varies greatly depending on your application. A basic system consists of a vehicle, surface power supply, control console, 75 meters of umbilical, 570 line/0.2 lux color camera, 50 watt halogen lamp, video overlay, auto functions, pelican brand transit cases and basic spares kit. There are a variety of options available including more systems. See Products for more information.
How does LBV compare to other ROVs?
The goal in the creation of LBV is a full function low cost ROV. When compared to other ROVs LBV is comparable to systems costing in excess of $50,000 USD and yet a fraction of the price. Our best suggestion is to compare the specifications of LBV with the competition. Look at depth ratings, thrust, umbilical diameter, standard features and price. You be the judge.
