Crab-shaped Crabster robot helps explore wrecks

Crabster robots can work well even in very complicated flow waters.

Recently, researchers from the Korea Institute of Oceanographic Technology (KIOST) have successfully developed a giant robot shaped like a crab named Crabster with the size and weight of an umbrella. smart bowl. This robot will help scientists explore the wreck of the sea starting this summer. In particular, it can work well even in very complicated flow waters.

One of the disadvantages related to the operation of underwater propellers in remote control vehicles (ROVs) or underwater self-propelled vehicles (AUVs) is that they are difficult to move well in strong water flows. In addition, the propeller of these devices tends to blow up a lot of dust or rock debris, thereby greatly reducing visibility. To overcome these problems, the team led by Dr. Bong-huan Jun of KIOST designed a 6-legged robot based on the characteristics of crabs and lobsters.

6-legged Crabster robot contains a total of 30 flexible and powerful joints. Like crabs, the robot's front legs have more joints than the rest, making it possible to hold tools when working under the sea in addition to moving functions. The 'tools' of the 'crab' robot will be placed inside a front compartment for easy access and use when needed. Even in shallow waters, light is very sparse, so Crabster is also equipped with 10 optical cameras and an underwater navigation system capable of scanning long range up to 200m (650 ft).

The team also used simulated computers to calculate Crabster's ability to balance when operating in strong currents. The 6-legged mechanism is really a viable option because it greatly increases lift for the entire system.

The group also added that about a month later, Crabster and its control unit will be transported by container to waters off the coast of Korea. There, it will be lowered to a depth of 200 meters below sea level with a crane and perform the first practical test. If the test goes smoothly, then Crabster will be used to explore wrecks or some ancient submerged ruins.

Currently, Crabster robot can operate continuously for 24 hours thanks to the power supplied by an extension cable connected to the terrestrial center. In the future, researchers can remove this power supply cable and improve Crabster's mobility by integrating a two-legged swimming system instead of just moving on the ground like now. hours.