Transforming Marine Research on Vessels

QYSEA FIFISH ROV: Pioneering New Possibilities in Oceanic Vessel Inspection

China · September 2023

Background & Challenges: Pressure in Maritime Inspection and Maintenance of Oceanic Vessels

As China’s first ocean exploration vessel, the research vessel “Kexue” (Science) undertakes a pioneering mission in deep-sea exploration. With a displacement of 4,000 tons and a cruising range of up to 15,000 nautical miles, it is recognized as a “floating oceanic laboratory.” However, prolonged exposure of the hull, rudder, and propulsion systems to corrosive and biologically active marine environments has resulted in frequent and intensive maintenance needs. Traditional inspections conducted by divers are inefficient, high-risk, and inadequate for meeting modern demands for precision and safety.

QYSEA FIFISH ROV: Breaking Through Traditional Vessel Inspection Limitations

To address these persistent challenges, the “Kexue” introduced the QYSEA FIFISH ROV equipped with the advanced Q-DVL and autonomous navigation system. Its built-in 4K imaging system and high-lumen supplementary lighting enable clear capture of subtle corrosion points and biological fouling even in murky waters. Through high-precision positioning and real-time image feedback, the FIFISH ROV comprehensively scans the vessel hull, significantly reducing inspection intervals.

Efficiency Improvement >100%: Greater Precision and Safety

The FIFISH W6 demonstrated groundbreaking efficiency immediately upon deployment. It completed inspections of critical vessel components in just 40% of the time required by traditional methods, simultaneously eliminating the risks associated with diver operations in hazardous underwater conditions. For components particularly susceptible to corrosion or wear, such as propellers and rudders, the FIFISH W6 swiftly identified and marked problematic areas, providing robust scientific data for subsequent maintenance. According to client data, the FIFISH W6 improved overall inspection efficiency by more than 100% compared to manual diver inspections, greatly enhancing operational safety and reliability.

Establishing a New Standard for Maritime Vessel Inspection and Maintenance

By integrating advanced underwater robotic technology like the FIFISH W6, the “Kexue” has successfully established a more efficient and safer maritime vessel inspection and maintenance process. Its successful deployment underscores the substantial value of intelligent and automated solutions in deep-sea operations, offering a practical reference for future maritime inspection projects. Amid growing demands for marine resource development, the innovative FIFISH W6 underwater inspection solution empowers oceanic vessel operations toward unprecedented levels of safety and efficiency.