Stanford's Robotics Laboratory, in collaboration with KAUST professors Khaled Nabil Salama and Christian Voolstra and MEKA Robotics, developed OceanOne, a bimanual underwater humanoid robot avatar with haptic feedback. OceanOne allows human pilots to explore ocean depths with high fidelity by relaying instantaneous images. The robot has two fully articulated arms and a tail section with batteries, computers, and thrusters. Why it matters: This collaboration between KAUST and Stanford highlights the increasing role of robotics and AI in deep-sea exploration, with potential applications in underwater research and resource discovery in the Red Sea and beyond.
KAUST researchers are using autonomous gliders in the Red Sea to monitor variables such as temperature, salinity, and chlorophyll, providing continuous, detailed measurements of the sea's physical and biogeochemical processes. These gliders can measure a number of variables, including temperature, salinity, chlorophyll, and concentration of dissolved organic matter. One glider was deployed for three months and monitored the formation of mesoscale eddies and anthropogenic inputs from aquaculture. Why it matters: This technology allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the Red Sea ecosystem and its dynamics, benefiting research and applications such as monitoring the impact of aquaculture, with potential implications for environmental management and sustainable resource utilization.
KAUST, Stanford University, and Meka Robotics are collaborating on a new underwater robotic platform called the Red Sea Robotics Exploratorium. The project aims to create a robotic avatar diver that can explore deep-sea coral reefs with greater dexterity than existing underwater vehicles. The robot will address the limitations of current ROVs, which are large and difficult to operate in confined spaces. Why it matters: This technology could significantly advance marine research in the Red Sea and other challenging underwater environments, enabling more detailed exploration and sample collection of unique deep-sea ecosystems.
The Autonomous Robotics Research Center (ARRC) is developing underwater communication systems, including a multimode modem prototype, and has filed three patents. One key technology is the Universal Underwater Software Defined Modem (UniSDM), which supports sound, magnetic induction, light, and radio waves. ARRC also developed a network management framework for automatic network slicing (ANS) of communication resources. Why it matters: These advancements are crucial for improving underwater exploration, industrial maintenance, and marine monitoring in the region, enabling more efficient and reliable communication for underwater robots.
KAUST and Fugro conducted the first remotely operated vehicle (ROV) training program in Saudi Arabia in 2018 through the KAUST-Fugro Center of Excellence for Marine Technology. The Fugro ROV Academy is accepted by major oil and gas companies, providing KAUST marine science students access to deepwater ROVs and pilot training. KAUST Ph.D. student Lina Eyouni became the first Saudi female ROV pilot through this program. Why it matters: The initiative enhances marine research capabilities in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030 by promoting environmental protection and providing students with industry-standard training in robotics.
KAUST and the Marine Technology Society (MTS) have formed the MTS Red Sea Section, the first MTS Section in the Middle East. KAUST hosted the MATE ROV Red Sea Regional competition and RobotoKAUST, sponsored by the MTS Red Sea Section. Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in the Blue Economy, and KAUST is positioning itself at the forefront of marine science and technology for the Red Sea. Why it matters: This partnership and KAUST's activities will foster marine technology development and talent growth in the region, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Blue Economy initiatives.
KAUST and Fugro N.V. have inaugurated the KAUST – Fugro Center of Excellence (CoE) for Marine Technology. Fugro will provide access to advanced technologies for data collection in previously inaccessible sites of the Red Sea. They will also establish an ROV Training Academy (ROVTA) at KAUST to train Saudi students as ROV pilots and engineers. Why it matters: This partnership will enhance KAUST's marine research capabilities, support industrial partners, and advance the development of subsea research technologies in the region.
Researchers from MBZUAI, Khalifa University, and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi developed H-SURF, a system of underwater robotic fish that can swim, communicate, and gather information without human guidance. The robotic fish use bioinspired robotics with streamlined bodies, fins, and propellers to produce fluid movement. They communicate with each other using light instead of sound to reduce noise. Why it matters: This award-winning system represents a significant advancement in autonomous underwater robotics, offering a less intrusive way to monitor marine environments and gather data, with potential applications in marine biology and environmental research.