Schilling Robotics has selected industrial internet of things (IoT) connectivity company Real-Time Innovations’ (RTI) RTI Connext DDS as the connectivity framework for its underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
A business unit of TechnipFMC, Schilling Robotics will use RTI’s technology to build next-generation remote robotics controls to ensure faster and more secure connectivity within underwater ROVs, which are used in complex subsea and offshore projects.
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Capable of operating at depths of 3,000m or more below sea-level, the ROVs assist with servicing subsea infrastructure and managing assets.
The ROVs also offer help during crucial maintenance and construction tasks at the seafloor.
Connext DDS will be integrated into TechnipFMC’s operations to enable the use of underwater, real-time robotic controls and switch from manual to automated functions.
TechnipFMC chief software engineer Bijou Abraham said: “When you are operating on critical infrastructure that is thousands of metres below the ocean’s surface, performance and reliability are crucial because the smallest mistake could lead to a multibillion-dollar disaster.
“To address the critical nature of this application, our customers rely on our technology to monitor and prevent these types of disasters, and we rely on RTI to support us with the real-time connectivity required.”
TechnipFMC previously implemented RTI’s early stage Connext framework, NDDS, in their ROV products.
In 2010, the company shifted from NDDS to Connext DDS Professional.
TechnipFMC leverages Connext DDS to transport sensor and control data within the ROV control system network.
The solution offers flexibility to the company in terms of implementing new features without having to re-architect the data transport infrastructure.
