Creation Covenant Alliance

New Offshore Survey and Inspection Industry Being Reshaped by Autonomous Robotics, AI and Cloud Systems

Offshore survey companies like Bureau Veritas, Terradepth and Sulmara are utilising autonomous robotics, cloud systems and AI to deliver faster, cheaper and more environmentally friendly services.
(Autonomous) Robotics, AI and Cloud Systems Shaping New Offshore Survey and Inspection Industry

Offshore Survey Companies Embrace AI and Robotics in Service Delivery

As global energy transitions continue, offshore survey and inspection firms like Bureau Veritas, Terradepth, and Sulmara are shifting towards environmentally friendly methodologies. The companies are increasingly employing autonomous or remotely operated robotics, cloud systems, and artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver projects in a faster, more cost-effective, and eco-friendly manner.

“Traditional methods of collecting subsea geophysical data haven’t drastically changed in the last 50 years and are still costly and cumbersome,” says Kris Rydberg, Chief Operating Officer at Terradepth. “The current practices also raise safety concerns and have considerable environmental impacts.”

Bureau Veritas, Terradepth, and Sulmara have integrated remote/autonomous survey and inspection vehicles and cloud-based data into their service offerings for the offshore wind industry. The companies emphasize the speed and cost-effectiveness of data processing and the potential for regular surveys as transformative benefits of these technologies.

A Shift from Remote Marine Vessel Inspection to Offshore Wind

Hiram Mechling, Vice President of Offshore Wind at Bureau Veritas North America, observes that drone technology and AI are advancing rapidly. Bureau Veritas has leveraged its experience in ship surveys to create the Augmented Surveyor tool. This tool, which merges drone technology with AI, can be used to inspect offshore wind farm components. The software uses AI to identify structural defects and map them on 3D models using associated images.

“The Augmented Surveyor software greatly reduces inspection times and costs while improving safety,” Mechling explains. “It can be used to inspect various offshore wind components, including foundations.”

Adapting to the Changing Underwater Landscape

According to Kris Rydberg, the underwater world is in constant flux. Terradepth offers a solution to this problem with its autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), which facilitates easy data collection and processing. The company recently tested its AUV in a project for Italy’s transmission system operator, Terna, and plans to expand its use in European offshore wind projects.

Sulmara Balancing Human Intervention and USV Fleet Growth

UK-based company Sulmara has participated in several offshore wind projects and plans to expand its fleet of uncrewed subsea vehicles (USV). While the company acknowledges the benefit of using USVs, it also recognizes that some tasks currently require human involvement and traditional survey vessels.

“We are focusing on conducting survey operations from a USV platform, but we still need human intervention for certain tasks,” says Andy Doggett, Chief Technology Officer at Sulmara. “We are also developing a portal that allows real-time access to vessel activities and using AI to reduce data processing times.”

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024