Marine robotics allows sensors to be brought closer to areas where obtaining data using conventional methods can be difficult. Pau Guasch explains in chapter 32 of Toque de Ingenio how SEABOTS develops compact platforms for measurement and inspection in ports, coastlines, and other sheltered waters. The discussion covers sensor integration, the design of small vehicles, and the evolution from selling robots to offering services.
Guest: Pau Guasch, who was presented in the episode as the CEO of SEABOTS.
Interview published: December 17, 2024. Episode: 32. Duration: 1 h 7 min.
In this episode:
- How a surface platform can obtain useful data about the seabed and the marine environment.
- Integrating sensors, propulsion, and communications presented a central challenge for the product.
- What applications explain the transition from building robots to conducting measurement campaigns?
Pau has identified the origins of SEABOTS in the maritime experience and industrial capabilities of the GPAINNOVA group. The company began by comparing a compact solution with professionals from the sector and subsequently developed its initial platforms. The article details the products and strategy described for December 2024.
A small platform for a specific environment.
The initial proposal focused on sheltered areas, such as ports, lakes, and reservoirs. Pau explains that many maritime solutions had centered on applications of a larger scale and operations away from the coast. SEABOTS sought a location where a compact platform could be beneficial.
Size influences transport, deployment, and operation. It also necessitates selecting and distributing components within a limited space. Miniaturization isn’t simply about making a boat smaller; it requires a reassessment of its intended function and the conditions it will encounter.
The conversation describes an initial commercial validation process using a prototype, which was presented at a trade fair. The questions from visitors helped to identify interest and potential applications. This activity provided valuable market insights, while the technical functionality still required further testing.
For a project of product design, It’s important to distinguish these types of evidence. A prototype can facilitate discussions and clarify a proposal. A functional prototype should test movement, consumption, stability, and data acquisition. Both stages are useful when you understand what question each one is answering.
Measuring the background from the surface.
Pau explains that one of the initial applications was bathymetry – that is, obtaining information about the depth and shape of the seabed. The robot moves on the surface while sensors carry out the measurements. The platform transports the necessary equipment and follows the working route.
The episode recalls an initial test conducted using readily available components and integrated sensors. The aim was to determine whether the combination allowed for achieving the desired outcome. This test helped to link a technical hypothesis with a potential need identified within the port environment.
The application demonstrates that the robot’s value is reflected in the data it provides. Controlled navigation is necessary, but the client requires a measurable and linked position. Development should coordinate positioning, sensor data, and processing.
From engineering, the case suggests that the campaign should be defined before selecting a platform. The relevant factors include the area of application, the required information, and the operating conditions. The physical solution must align with the measurement work and the way in which the results will be used.
The challenge of integrating sensors and propulsion.
Pau identifies integration as one of the main challenges. In a limited space, batteries, propulsion systems, communications, and sensors with varying sensitivities coexist. A system can navigate successfully, but still produce flawed data if its components interfere with each other.
In the interview, they described disruptions affecting readings and the need to organize channels and input. The aim was to achieve:
“that the sensors work in harmony”.
Pau Guasch 22:40.
The response included its own electronics to facilitate integration. The platform needed to allow for the incorporation of sensors without requiring a complete rebuild of all connections and configurations. This capability also became part of its offering for specialized applications.
The case is relevant to the development of electronics Of systems that are compact in size. The quality of a measurement depends on the sensor itself and the electrical and physical environment it creates. Integration requires testing the entire system as a whole, as well as checking each component individually.
Expand the inspection using an underwater robot.
The interview differentiates between the capabilities of a surface platform and those of a submersible vehicle. While data can be obtained from above, certain inspections require a close examination of a structure underwater. This need has led to the development of a new line.
Pau describes a system that combines a surface platform with an underwater robot connected by a cable. The platform maintains positioning and communication, while the robot allows access to the inspection point. This architecture distributes functions between two connected elements.
The solution expands the applications, but it also introduces integration requirements. Cabling, component recovery, and protection now become part of the system. Furthermore, the marine environment introduces challenges related to sealing and connector exposure.
Teaching a product involves building upon existing knowledge to expand its capabilities, without assuming that previous conditions are resolved. Each new feature requires specific testing. A program of prototyping It can help to evaluate those interfaces before converting the settings into a repeatable solution.
Applications where the data influences a decision.
Pau uses specific examples to explain the value of the platforms. One of these relates to measuring depth in a river section where sedimentation affects transport. Knowing the condition of the passage helps to plan upstream operations.
The value of that application doesn’t lie in replacing one boat with a smaller one. The measurement is linked to a decision with operational consequences. Repeating it in an organized way allows the client to have the information they need.
The conversation also mentions addressing floating waste and environmental monitoring initiatives. Pau distinguishes these activities from his primary focus on sensors and data. While one platform can support a variety of uses, each must justify its development and demonstrate a clear commercial viability.
These examples illustrate marine robotics with identifiable needs: inspecting infrastructure, exploring the seabed, or studying an environment. The technology becomes more understandable when linked to the data and the actions it enables, facilitating preparation.
From selling robots to offering campaigns and services.
SEABOTS initially started by selling platforms and providing specialized development services. Pau explains that this business model continued to be relevant for certain clients, particularly those who needed to integrate sensors and conduct research. Personalization could add value in these cases.
The company also evolved to operate its own equipment for clients who needed the results of a campaign. Paul summarized the change as follows:
“We have transitioned into a service-based company”.
Pau Guasch 28:02.
That decision changes the way the company needs to operate. In addition to manufacturing and maintaining robots, it now needs to prepare operations, gather information, and deliver results. The client can hire a capability without having to establish the entire infrastructure and knowledge required to use it.
The interview then explores a potential evolution towards datasets collected continuously. Pau presents this as a strategic future direction. Its feasibility would depend on having sufficient capacity and identifying specific needs for that information.
What can another development team learn?
- Choosing an application environment that allows you to define size, sensors, and operating conditions.
- Assess the quality of the data with all sub-systems operating together.
- Validate the new interfaces when one platform incorporates a new capability.
- Check whether the client needs to acquire the equipment or to obtain the results of their work.
Seabots demonstrates how robotics can become a tool for measurement and an industrial service. If your company develops a team that integrates sensors, movement, and communication, i-mas can help you organize requirements and prepare testing for the entire system. Tell us about the challenge of your project..
To continue reading: The development of Searebbel’s autopilot..
Source of article: Interview with Edgar Guerrero, hosted by Pau Guasch on Toque de Ingenio, published on December 17, 2024. The quotes link to the relevant sections of the video; the “learnings” are a summarized editorial version of the conversation.
