Underwater drones have significantly transformed marine exploration and various industries since their inception in the 1950s. Developed initially by the United States Navy, these drones were designed to retrieve lost equipment and explore wrecks. Notably, an underwater drone discovered the Titanic wreck in 1985, showcasing the remarkable capabilities of this technology.
Early Developments and Innovations
The development of underwater drones began in earnest in the 1960s when the Navy started using them alongside underwater cameras. These early drones were instrumental in missions such as retrieving a lost nuclear bomb off the coast of Spain, a feat that remained classified for many years. The 1970s saw a surge in commercial interest, with industries using drones for various purposes, including rescuing the crew of a wrecked submarine.
Breakthroughs in the 1980s and 1990s
The 1980s marked a significant milestone with the discovery of the Titanic. This required a new type of remotely operated vehicle (ROV), developed with the Navy’s assistance. The success of this mission highlighted the potential of underwater drones in deep-sea exploration. In the 1990s, drones expanded their capabilities, performing tasks such as disabling mines and conducting duties previously reliant on human divers. Improvements in deployment methods and battery life made them more efficient and versatile.
Technological Advancements in the 2000s
The 2000s brought a massive boost to underwater drones, driven by advancements in lithium-ion battery technology. These improvements enabled drones to be deployed from smaller vessels, enhancing their versatility and accessibility. Modern drones are far more advanced than their predecessors, with continuous innovation pushing the boundaries of their capabilities.
How Underwater Drones Work
Modern underwater drones function like miniature submarines without a crew. They can operate autonomously using onboard sensors or be controlled via a long tether that connects them to a ship. These drones adjust their buoyancy to navigate and use motors to move. Operators manage the drones from a control room, guiding them with cameras and sensors.
One example is the Deep Trekker REVOLUTION, a robust, portable drone with advanced features. It includes a revolving head, a 260-degree field of view, and a 4K underwater camera, designed for harsh, low-light environments. This drone provides high-quality footage and exceptional situational awareness for operators.
Applications Across Industries
Underwater drones are now integral to various industries. The Navy remains central to their innovation, but commercial sectors, including gas and oil companies, oceanic research organizations, and the aquaculture industry, have adopted them for exploration, inspections, and monitoring. These drones are used to explore potential drilling sites, inspect underwater infrastructure, and monitor environmental conditions.
In the aquaculture industry, underwater drones enhance efficiency in net inspections, lighting, feeding, troubleshooting, and stock monitoring. They offer a cost-effective way to ensure healthy fish crops and environmental protection. Additionally, commercial diving and inspection industries use drones to perform inspections in enclosed spaces, ensuring divers’ safety.
The Future of Underwater Drones
As technology continues to advance, the use of underwater drones is expanding into all facets of ocean-based industries. At Deep Trekker, we have identified two main user personas: the Hobbyist and the Professional. Both groups benefit from the ever-evolving capabilities of underwater drones, which are becoming increasingly accessible and versatile.
Underwater drones are poised to play a crucial role in future marine exploration and industrial applications, driving innovation and efficiency in various sectors.
