PROJECT FILE

GROUP MEMBERS
 ZOHAIR SHAHID
 AMMAR KHAN
 ANIQ ATIF
 AYAN HAIDER
 ABDULLAH BIN FAHAD
 Contents:
Title……………………………………………………………………. 1
Contents……………………………………………………………….. 2
Problem ………………………………………………………………..3-8
 Introduction
 Location
 Participating species
 Causes
 Effects
Existing Solutions………………………………………………………......... 9
Marine Protected Areas………………………………………………………. 10-11
 Summary
 Reason
 Advantages
 Disadvantages
 Graph evidence
Environmental Impact Assessment…………………………………………12-16
 Summary
 Stages of (EIA)
 Reason
 History/background
 growth chart
 Real-world examples
 Advantages
 Disadvantages
Acoustic tracking and Sonar technology……………………………………... 17-18
 Summary
 Reason
 Advantages
 Disadvantages
References…………………………………………………………………... 19
 Problem:
Disruption of Deep-
sea Migration
Patterns
Problem statement: Deep sea migration is a natural pattern or the behavior of
life in the ocean, such as fish and whales migrate seasonally and daily in movements
at various levels around currents ocean belts. It is a crucial natural process to
maintain ecosystem health, biodiversity, nutrient cycling and global climate
regulation of marine ecosystems. Nevertheless, human activities and changes in the
environment have affected these migration patterns in different ways across lots of
marine species thus becoming a threat to both — marine ecology as well as human
communities dependent on these ecosystems.

Background: It is able to show elaborate migratory behaviors of marine species

depending upon different climatic factors including temperature, food availability
and reproduction that are influenced by ocean currents. They have learned to migrate
through the oceans and provide a pivotal role in supporting marine ecosystems,
including for fisheries, which is a crucial food source for millions of people around
the globe.
Location: Organisms travel to surface or deep waters throughout the day and night
in a cycle, energy transfer and nutrient cycling happens during this period. The
epipelagic, mesopelagic and bathypelagic zones are popular amongst these oceanic
zones. Organisms travel to surface or deep waters throughout the day and night
following a cycle nutrient cycling and energy transfer occurred during this period.
Participating species:
Zooplankton, copepods, cephalopods(squids),variety of fishes (Tuna and Cod),
sharks(Great white and Mako) and marine mammals (dolphins) part take in this
process.
Causes:
1. Climate change: Rising temperature changes the habitat of marine species and
disrupt migration patterns as ocean current flows are interrupted and zones become
more temperate.
 Ocean acidification refers to the threat to marine ecosystems posed by high
concentration of carbon dioxide (aquatic-acidification), particularly to
organisms such as coral that rely on calcium carbonate for their basic
chemistry.
2. Pollution: Chemical Contaminants; Higher levels of heavy metals, micro
plastics and pesticides in the marine organisms can affect the health and ability of
organisms to reproduce which results into modified migration.
 Fertilizer Runoff; Agricultural runoff leads to eutrophication raising dead
zones, forcing oceanic species to migrate toward the new dead.
3. Habitat destruction: Bottom Trawling; Destructive fishing practices cause
severe damage to seabed habitats and disturb breeding and feeding grounds that are
vital for migratory species.
 Coastal construction and development which lead to the destruction of crucial
habitat such as mangroves and coral reefs, leading to degraded nursery
grounds.

4. Noise Pollution: Shipping Traffic: Greater movements of ships produce

underwater noise that may disrupt the ability of migrating creatures like whales to
communicate and navigate.
 Sonar & Seismic testing – Military and industrial activities can disrupt natural
behavior, causes disorientation& migration route change.
5. Invasive species: Ecosystem Disruption: Non-native species may outcompete
native species for resources, changing valuable food webs and influencing migratory
behaviors.
6. Deep sea mining: for the extraction of valuable minerals at the ocean surface,
destroy habitats and breeding grounds, which are commonly used during these
migration. Which delays/disrupts their migration as ordinary habitats are destroyed.
Effects:
Climate Feedback Loops: Deep-sea animals, especially migratory species,
contribute to the biological pump — an oceanic system in which carbon is stored
from sea level and submerged into the deep sea by transporting it to lower levels of
the seawater — sequestering carbon and controlling atmospheric CO2. This can
weaken the process — the ocean acting as a carbon sink — by disturbing natural
migration patterns. This could contribute to climate change on a global scale,
resulting in more frequent weather extremes and increasing intensity of events such
as storms and sea rise; among other potential impacts.
Global Fishery Disruption Decreased Fish Resources: A number of
commercially essential species, such as tuna, mackerel and squid, migrate through
deep sea powers. This makes it more difficult for fisheries to anticipate where and
when these species will be available to catch, the researchers say. This results in
lower fish stocks, thereby directly threat food security, especially of coastal
communities.
Employment: The industry of fishing, especially deep-sea fishing is a large sector
of economy in many countries so the destruction to marine mammals along with
millions of fish cost very high employment rate. In addition, disruptions in migration
patterns can result in a lower fish harvest, increasing operational costs for fishermen
and causing economic losses in coastal areas.
Cultural and Social Impacts Traditional Knowledge Erosion: For
centuries deep-sea migratory species have been the focus of traditional and
indigenous coastal communities, become an integral part of their cultural heritage
including fishing, life styles. From changing migration patterns, traditional
knowledge systems for ocean familiarity may be lost and result in challenges to learn
new fishing strategies or find alternate sources of food and income.
Loss of tourism: In some regions, such as for attraction viewing during whale
migrations, tourism is based on deep-sea wildlife. These iconic creatures bring in
much-needed income in ecotourism, and if they are scarce — caused by disrupted
migratory patterns — these industries can suffer.

Disruption to the Marine Food Web: Several deep-sea species are key
components of the marine food web. An upset in their migration may result in an
unhealthy predator-prey relationship and may, as such, cause species to decline or
explode. This can have human fallouts as well and for instance, when too much
Nitrogen enters the ocean it provokes algal blooms or jellyfish swarms which pull
sledges on coastal fisheries and tourism industries
Existing
Solutions
Establishing MPA’s:
Definition: MPAs are regions of the ocean or coastal waters established to preserve
marine life and aquatic habitats.
Purpose:
 Protect declining ecosystems and biodiversity.
 Mitigate human-induced threats like pollution, habitat destruction, and
overfishing.
Functions and Benefits:
 Act as crucial refuges for countless marine species.
 Provide safe breeding grounds, aiding biodiversity conservation.
 Replenish fish stocks, benefiting natural environments and coastal economies.
 Support sustainable fishing and livelihoods for local communities.
Role in Research:
 Serve as critical research hubs for marine ecology.
 Offer insights to refine conservation efforts.
 Bolster the resilience of marine ecosystems globally.
Reasons:
 Proven to effectively preserve biodiversity.
 Achieved successful restoration of declining ecosystems.
 Examples include New Zealand and Mediterranean MPAs.
Advantages:
1) Entire ecosystems are conserved while biodiversity is safeguarded.
2) Habitats like sea grasses, mangroves and coral reefs are also protected, reducing
coastal erosion and carbon emission, countering climate change.
3) MPA’s are a fish haven, so marine life reproduce without interferences, leading
to healthier fish populations. Due to the spill-over effect, extra fish are fished in
nearby areas where fishing is permitted.
4) Some MPA's also promote eco-tourism, generating income for local
communities.
5) They provide a controlled space for researchers to observe and study marine-life,
improving marine conservation strategies.
Disadvantages: Even though MPA's have numerous benefits, they also have a
few disadvantages.
1) If MPA's are poorly managed or designed, they hurt more to the environment than
contributing.
2) MPA’s development can also be quite expensive, with daily maintenance and
incomes of the workers.
3) The time to set them can also be delayed, impacting the cost.
4) Although MPA's ultimately benefit humans, they impact the livelihoods of
fishermen and fishing companies who fish in the area of the developing MPA's.

Evidence of MPA's succession:

\
 Environmental Impact Assessments:
Environmental impact assessment (EIA) is an assessment of the environmental
consequences of a plan, policy, program, or actual projects prior to the decision to
move forward with the proposed action. In this context, the term "environmental
impact assessment" is usually used when applied to projects by individuals or
companies. Environmental assessments may be governed by rules of administrative
procedure regarding public participation and documentation of decision making.
Stages of EIA:
1. Screening: Deciding if an EIA is required.
2. Scooping: Deciding what needs to be covered in the assessment and
reported in the 'EIA Report'.
3. Preparing the EIA report: The EIA report has to include the environmental
effects of the development.
4. Making an application and consultation: The EIA Report and
development application must be publicized (including electronic advertisement),
interested parties and the public must be given an opportunity to give their views on
it.
5. Decision making: The EIA Report with any comments on it, must be taken
into account by the authority before deciding to give consent for development.
6. Post decision: The developer starts any monitoring required by the competent
authority.

Reason: One of the primary objectives of EIA is to protect the environment by

identifying and mitigating potential adverse impacts of proposed projects. By
thoroughly assessing environmental implications, EIA's help in avoiding, reducing,
or compensating for negative effects. This approach prevents environmental
degradation, preserves biodiversity and maintains ecosystem services which are
essential for human well-being. By identifying potential environmental impacts early
in the project planning stage, EIA's allows for the integration of mitigation measures
into the project design. This not only minimizes environmental damage, but can also
leads to cost efficiency by avoiding unforeseen issues during project implementation.
Origin:
 Emerged in the 1960s due to increasing environmental awareness.
 Provide technical evaluations for more objective decision-making
Formal Status:
 Gained formal recognition in 1969 in the U.S. with the enactment of the
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
Purpose of Environmental Assessments (EAs):
 Provide sufficient information to help agencies decide whether a full
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is required.
 (EIC) Growth chart

Real-world Examples: Several notable projects showcase the importance of EIA

in sustainable development; such as the construction of the Three Gorges Dam in
China, involving extensive EIA's, leading to implementation of significant
mitigation measures.
Conversely, the failure to conduct a thorough EIA for the construction of the Aral-
Sea irrigation canals in the former Soviet Union, resulted in one of the most severe
environmental disasters, highlighting the consequences of neglecting EIA's.
The development of the London Olympic Park is also an example of a successful
EIA (in an urban redevelopment context). Key elements include;
Biodiversity Enhancement: The project created new spaces and habitats,
enhancing urban biodiversity.
USA: Port of Los Angeles Expansion Project: Increase capacity at Port of
Los Angeles, one of the busiest ports in the world. EIA Functions: The EIA
identified potential impacts on water quality, marine life and the nearby coastal eco-
systems that include endangered species habitats such as California Sea Lion and
various other fish species.
Result: This EIA led to the applied introduction of cleaner technologies for
reducing water pollution, habitat restoration projects as well as monitoring programs
on marine mammals and fishing stock. It has been praised by officials for striking a
delicate balance between economic development and environmental constraints,
protecting underwater habitats while easing congestion
Gorgon Gas Project (Australia):
The Gorgon Gas Project is one of the largest natural gas developments in the world
and located off the coast of Western Australia. Statement of EIA Role — the essence
of EIA with the above example is how it evaluates impact upon row sensitive marine
ecosystems near the proposed project site like coral reefs, endangered species such
as sea turtles and routes for whale migration.
Results: External Genesis impact assessment informed the... Implementation of
strict environmental management plans such as prohibiting activities during certain
times to safeguard whale migration, protective marine areas and real-time
monitoring of biodiversity. While this meant less of the marine ecosystems would be
disrupted, it allowed them to forge ahead with project.
United Kingdom — Shetland Islands, Oil Terminal.
Example: Sullan Voe Oil Terminal - the construction project of a large oil vessel
loading and processing refinery on the Shetland Islands.
EIA Role: The EIA reported potential risks to the marine ecosystem, which was
associated with oil spill and pollution in the impact on seabird, marine mammals and
local fisheries.
Impact: As a direct consequence of the EIA, elaborate spill response processes
were put in place, as well as stringent guidelines on water discharges. The
programme also gave special attention to marine birds and seals, as well as
continued biological monitoring. For decades, the plant has been running with
relatively few major incidents that have impacted nearby sea life.
Advantages:
1) EIA’s ensures that environmental factors are integrated into the decision-making
process at Cypress, so environmental concerns are not an afterthought, but are
considered alongside social and economic aspects. As a result, projects are designed
and implemented with more knowledge about the environmental consequences.
2) EIA’s ensures that projects are not just economically viable but also
environmentally responsible.
3) By promoting projects that respect the carrying capacity of the environment,
EIA's help create a more sustainable future.
4) EIA’s help meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of
future generations.
Disadvantages:
1) Conducting a thorough EIA can be time- consuming and expensive.
2) Delays in the assessment phase can result in project postponements and increased
cost.
3) Disagreements over the significance of environmental impacts of mitigation
measures can lead to project delays or even legal disputes.
Acoustic Tracking and Sonar Technology
A major problem associated with the disruption of deep sea migration is the
disturbance within the prey-predator relations.
Smaller fish and crustaceans such as lantern fish and krill travel from the depths of
ocean to surface for feeding, exposing themselves to larger fish and other predators
such as jellyfish and squids. Over the passage of time, these predators become
advanced to track such movements and hunt accordingly, disrupting the food chain.
Acoustic tracking and sonar technology is a method to address this problem is by
using acoustic tracking devices which track the movements of animals along with
their interactions with predators.
Reason: Early applications were centered on critical species to understand their
travel routes, but as technology progressed, improved sensors were developed which
benefit the scientists, as they were able to monitor the movements of smaller animals
over much longer distances, for longer periods of time
Advantages:
1)In this technology, sound waves are generated that travel down to the ocean depth
and bounce back from smaller fish such as lantern fish and krill, making the animals
below, visible to the people on the surface.
2)Accordingly, areas where such marine life is disturbed, are protected from human
activities that can further add to the problem, scientists can also study about how
these endangered species respond to environmental changes as well, further helping
to maintain the marine ecosystem.
3) This methodology presents a much safer way without human intervention in the
depths of ocean to study the sea without disturbing the marine-life.
Disadvantages:
1) This technology relies on sound waves, but the sea is already occupied with other
noises, generated from ships and marine-species, which use them to traverse, causing
wave patterns to give false readings
2) Naturally, such technologies do not come without incurring significant costs that
are associated with installation and commissioning of equipment and their
maintenance. Additionally, areas where predator fish are in abundance and areas of
high traffic may require additional repair costs.
INNOVATIVE
SOLUTION
 MAIN IDEA
 Designed to address pollution, clean oil spills, and remove
sediments while minimizing noise pollution.
 Equipped with two versatile arms; one functions as a high-
powered vacuum connected to an internal storage bag for
collecting debris, sediments, and pollutants, while the other
features a robust claw mechanism for grabbing and handling larger
waste materials or objects with precision.
 Incorporates a high-resolution camera for capturing detailed
visuals and transferring data in real time, enabling efficient deep-
sea exploration.
 Powered by advanced rechargeable batteries with an intelligent
self-locating system that autonomously connects to underwater
sub-deck charging ports to ensure uninterrupted operation.
 Features an AI-driven collision-avoidance system to safeguard
marine life and prevent damage to fish nests, coral reefs, and other
critical underwater habitats.
 Utilizes electric jet propulsion technology to reduce noise
pollution, enabling silent and efficient underwater maneuvering.
 Includes a specialized storage compartment to isolate and contain
collected oil, preventing leakage or cross-contamination during
cleanup missions.
 Constructed from durable zinc alloy to withstand harsh underwater
conditions while maintaining operational efficiency and longevity.
 Combines advanced technology and environmental sensitivity,
making it a vital tool for preserving aquatic ecosystems.

HOW THE ROBOT WORKS:

-Deployment and Navigation: The robot will be lowered into the sea and the ai -
powered motors will help it reach mineral-rich areas. Sonar and LiDAR will guide
the path and avoid all obstacles blocking its path.
-Detection and Collection: The robot will use its sensors to find valuable minerals
on the floor and with help of its arms, drill, scoop and collect the minerals
perfectly with precision.
-Data Collection: While operating the robot will be assigned to collect data about
its environment conditions and the minerals which will be sent to researchers for
further analysis.
-Energy: The robot is powered by Lithium-Ion batteries, and if wanting to
recharge, will go to the stations made underground and use it as a dock and
recharge itself by Inductive Charging.
-Environment Protection: It will be a quiet robot and work with no noise, use
coatings and avoid going near the places where life is too much.

Energy source and power management:

Lithium Ion: Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are rechargeable, cost-effective power
sources used in electronics, electric vehicles, and robotics. They offer high energy
density, long lifespan, and low self-discharge, making them versatile and efficient
for various applications.
Subdeck Charging Ports: Subdeck charging ports are docking stations for
underwater robots, allowing autonomous recharging without human
intervention. Built to withstand harsh conditions, they enable continuous
operation for tasks like ocean cleaning and are compatible with various
underwater robots.
Advantages:

Proprietary Tether Data and Power Control: The tether would also be
able to transfer data, enabling control of the energy consumption in real time.
The tethers are to be capable of carrying physical communication signals
between robot-end effector and control systems.
Challenges
Tether management – the tether must be malleable and have robust construction
with ability to withstand high tension of water currents. It must also enable the
robot to move freely without tangling itself and to conceal itself when necessary.
Deep-Sea Cable Design: The further the robot is deployed, to avoid being
crushed at depth a much more robust cable will be needed.
Energy Storages and Charging-Points: -
Another solution consists in the use of intermediate sub-surface energy storage
stations or charging platforms which store solar power transmitted from the sun and
supplies it to the robot whenever it requires.

Key elements:

Charging Station Energy Storage: It combines an

underwater station anchored at a depth (above high
current zones to avoid getting damaged, but well below
ship traffic) with surface platforms topped by solar
panels which collect and hold energy in batteries for
use by the robot upon requirement.
Underwater Charging Station: The robot might be
able to dock at underwater stations in order to top it
up. Stationary stations nearby would be selected for
reducing distant recharging.
Smart Inductive Charging: There are various wireless charging methods,
amongst which inductive charging is one which can be very easily employed when
the robot docks at a station. This eliminates the necessity for sea weather-proof
connectors.
Advantages:
Fewer Surface Trips Required: The robot can continue working at deeper depths
without requiring frequent return to the surface for recharge.
Self-Recharge: The robot is capable of navigating back to the nearest charging
point whenever its running out of energy, increasing its operational efficiency.
Challenges:

Station Deployment and Maintenance: Deploying these intermediate

stations as well as maintaining them, particularly at significant depths poses a major
challenge.
Losses in Energy Storage and Transfer: There is some energy loss with
storage and transfer between solar panels to underwater robot which needs to be
addressed.
Silent Propulsion Systems:
Electric propulsion: The shift from traditional
combustion engine to the use of electric motors has
reduced noise by a large scale with advancement in
technology.
Magneto hydrodynamic (MHD) Propulsion:
It propels the robot with electric and magnetic fields
where water carries magnets back & forth, therefore propelling the robot in a
noise-free way.
Soft Mounts: Attaching motors and other components with rubber or silicone
mounts can help prevent noise by reducing the transmission of vibrations.
Composites: Employing lightweight materials made of various combinations
(composite competitive structures) that absorb sound. (Rubber and/or
polyethene)
Hydrodynamic Design:
This design details a streamlined way to reduce air turbulence and noise.
Cameras and Sonar as Optical and Acoustic Sensors:
The use of non-noisy sensors such as cameras in combination with advanced
signal processing can potentially reduce the dependence on noisy active
sonars.
Improving Robot Design:

Choose appropriate materials: Lightweight and corrosion resistant, for

example titanium or composite structures that can withstand high underwater
pressure yet do not significantly increase the weight of the robot (e.g. no stainless
steel / copper).
Sensor optimization and Navigation:
Advanced Sonar and LiDAR: Use high-precision sonar or LiDAR (Light
Detection and Ranging) to map the seabed more accurately, enabling the robot to
avoid making unnecessary movements.
This ability to perform smart path finding/travel instead of roaming around and not
finding the right faster route means AI algorithms can be tuned for better directed
searches (not simply random walks/coverages).
Geological Sensors — Make sensors better (in terms of identifying mineral-rich
deposits), so the robot doesn't spend time and energy on mining low-grade
resources.

Mining Tool Efficiency:

Influx Essential Extraction Tools: Design material-specific mining tools

(e.g., DMC, cutters, etc.) capable of dynamically adjusting cutting speed
and suction in real-time based on the material's hardness or density.
Long-wearing Materials: Employing a durable, wear-resistant material for the
cutting tools will minimize the number of times maintenance or replacement is
required.
A number of important considerations are needed when focusing on reduction in
environmental impacts, e.g. protection of marine ecosystems: The most important
of these points relate to how one interacts with the physical environment,
protecting ecosystems and ensuring longevity.
Reduce Physical Interventions: It is essential to d e s i g n non-intrusive bots
so that they are small and light enough not to disrupt habitats due their small size,
but still can comfortably roam around narrow passages.
Favorable sediment plume potential: Mining tools or sample systems
should be designed in a fashion that minimizes the generation of hazardous
sediment plumes, which threaten marine life by deteriorating water quality and
visibility.
Avoiding Pollution:
Biodegradable materials: Materials that do not degrade into micro plastics, toxic
compounds leaching out of the water etc. Making sure that everything from coatings
and paints to lubricants are all non-toxic.
Bio fouling mitigation: Use biocompatible coatings to minimize bio fouling (the
accumulation of organisms on the surface) instead of conventional antifoul agents
which could be harmful to marine life.
Leak Protection: Robot design should not leak hydraulic fluids, oils or chemicals
that could introduce contamination to the marine environment.
Ecological Compatibility: Habitat Sensitivity (HabSense): Study and model
the specific habitats in which the robot will operate. A higher sensitivity of coral
reefs, sea grass meadows and hydrothermal vent ecosystems have been found
among others.
Minimal Habitat Displacement: Design the robot in such \ a way that it
has minimal footprint and does not damage or displace marine organisms (e.g.
scraping, sucking up fish) nor erode structures of physical habitats (e.g., by
leaving debris behind, creating permanent depressions in seafloor…)
Low Light Pollution: If the robot must use lights, select wavelengths and
intensities that are minimally disruptive to marine organisms. Most of these
animals have sensitive photoreceptors so ambient light is already bright enough
for some species
Monitoring system:

The sensors in the environment accompany the robot with instruments that
measure their effect, observations of turbidity or underwater noise levels as well
as disturbance expected on habitat. This data is used to make adjustments that can
save jobs, properties and lives.
Automated Collision Avoidance: Incorporating AI a l g o r i t h m s to enable
the robot autonomously detect and avoid marine species or no-go zones on-the-
fly. This can help avoid unintentional damage or collisions.
Waste Management:
Modular Robots: Reusing the robots, rather than throwing them away and
building completely new systems reduces material waste.
There are many efficiencies and key performance factors from integrating an
autonomous navigation in underwater robot:
Efficiencies:
Extended Mission Duration: This means autonomous s y s t e m s can run for
longer periods without human intervention, increasing the amount of time
available for research.
Improved Data Collection: Improved navigation and sensor coverage to
enable better mapping for more detailed and accurate monitoring of
environment.
Energy Efficiency: Path planning makes sure the vehicle moves efficiently
cutting down on wasted movement, which helps to save battery life while
also extending range.
Real-time Adaptability: Real-time processing of sensor data means the
robot can adapt rapidly to changes in its environment like currents or
obstacles.
Cost Efficiency: Driving down operational costs by not having a human
operator and/or support vessels on the water.
Key Factors

Sensor Integration: Different sensors (sonar, cameras) must be combined for

proper navigation or obstacle avoidance.
Algorithm Robustness: The navigation algorithms such as SLAM
(Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), path planning are the major causes
which influence the ability of robot to navigate in complex underwater
environments.
Environmental Adaptability: How quickly a system adapts to different
conditions like water clarity, depth, etc. can impact navigation accuracy.
Communication Systems:
The operational flexibility depends on good acoustic communication to control it
from far away and communicate back data.
Robustness and Durability:

Mission success requires the robot to be sufficiently robust for underwater pressures
and temperatures.
Mechanical robotic condition (robustness and s t u r d i n e s s ): If the robot
is complex, it might require many more three-dimensional models in simulation
than seems necessary.
Material Selection:
Saltwater Corrosion Resistance: Zinc Alloy or other high- performance
alloys are often required for this reason
Specific Strength: Advanced composites
can deliver specific strength (e.g. carbon
fiber) at lowest overall weight,
Pressure Resistance:
Hull Design: Deep-sea has been modeled
after a series of spherical shapes that are
rearranged and scaled to distribute pressure more
efficiently across the entire structure. For example, many submersibles are
shaped like spheres or cylinders.
Sealing: Good sealing techniques (e.g., O-ring) ensure that the water does not
leak in and so preserve integrity at depth.
Buoyancy & weight control:
Ballast System – Ballasting systems that will protect the structure from
unnecessary stress by keeping it in a neutral buoyancy state.
Foam Inserts — including some buoyant material can keep the
eight down and also help with stability.
Thermal Management: There is generated heat produced from electronics
within underwater robots, so they need efficient cooling solutions which include
easily integrated water-cooled systems or simply installed heat sinks preventing
any damage.
Design for Maintenance:
Modular Components: Parts can be built for replacement which will allow
longevity. Modular thrusters are an excellent example of a solution that can be
implemented without extensively dismantling the robot.
Precautionary Signaling: Access points strategically p l a c e d to allow for
regular inspections of the operation and maintenance improve communication
thereby preventing simple issues from becoming recurring problems in the future.
Impact Resistance:
Protection: It can save the sensitive components in shock by using materials or
designs which absorb shocks.
Rigorous Durability Testing: Setting and enforcing strict
durability testing standards (such as drop tests) help to determine that the robot
can operate under normal stresses.

Environmental Adaptability:

Anti-Bio fouling: Treatments or coatings that reduce bio fouling will prevent
this from occurring and help preserve the robot for a longer useful life. One
common example is the use of anti-fouling paints.
Temperature and Pressure: Similar to drop tests in which a robot is
subjected to a fall to test its integrity, changes in temperature or pressure require
alternative testing if the robot will be subjected to such conditions.

Existing robots:
1. Mineral extraction robot (ROV):
Price: $4million
Work-class Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) prices range to several million
dollars, depending on their capabilities and configurations.
 Operational Costs: Costs for skilled operators, tether management, and
support vessels can add up quickly.
 Tether Dependency: Most ROVs rely on tethers for power and data
transfer, which can limit their operational range and maneuverability.
 Tether Snagging: The tether can become tangled or caught on underwater
obstacles, potentially halting operations.
  Surface weather conditions can affect deployment and operations,
particularly for tethered systems reliant on support vessels.
 Limited Sensor Accuracy: Depending on the model, sensors and cameras
may not provide the resolution or detail needed for some tasks.
 Signal Interference: Communication with the ROV can be affected by
water conditions, leading to delays or interruptions in control and data
transfer.

2. Deep-sea mining robot (Ultra Trencher 1 [UT1])

Price: $17.5 million
Developed by Soil Machine Dynamics, the Ultra Trencher 1 is recognized as one
of the world's largest submersible robots. It is designed to bury submarine
pipelines by creating trenches in the seabed using pressurized water jets.
 Its water jetting systems for trenching create sediment plumes, which may
spread over large areas, potentially harming marine life.
 The UT1 is specifically designed for pipeline trenching, making it
unsuitable for other deep-sea mining tasks like collecting polymetallic
nodules or mining hydrothermal vent deposits. Its functionality is
therefore restricted to niche applications.
 High maintainance: Deployment and retrieval require specialized vessels
and crews, adding to the logistical complexity. Repairing or servicing it
underwater, in case of breakdowns, is difficult and expensive.
 The UT1 requires a significant amount of energy to power its operations,
particularly its water jetting and mobility systems, making it less efficient
in terms of energy consumption.

3. Ocean explorer robots (Triton 36000/2 Hadal Exploration System)

Price: $48 million
 Extremely high cost for robot, maintainance and installation.
  The Triton 36000/2 requires significant physical space, which can be
challenging for facilities that do not have a dedicated area for hyperbaric
units.
 Units like the Triton 36000/2 are not portable, making them unsuitable for
practices that require flexibility or off-site treatments.
 Such systems often consume a considerable amount of electricity,
increasing operational expenses.
Operating and maintaining the unit requires trained staff, which might add to the
hiring and training costs.

Simpler Version for Non-Economically Stable Countries:
 The robot can be simplified for non-economically stable
countries to balance cost-efficiency with functionality while
still addressing pollution and sediment cleanup.
 The simplified version retains core features but uses more
affordable materials and streamlined technologies.
 One arm functions as a vacuum connected to a basic, durable
storage bag for collecting debris and pollutants.
 The other arm features a simpler claw mechanism for grabbing
and removing larger waste items.
 The high-resolution camera is replaced with a lower-cost,
waterproof camera that captures clear visuals and stores data
locally for manual retrieval.
 Runs on rechargeable batteries but uses a manual charging
system, requiring human assistance to connect to charging
ports.
 The AI collision-avoidance system is simplified to basic
sensors for avoiding larger obstacles, though it may lack
precision for smaller marine habitats.
 Propulsion uses low-noise electric motors, reducing noise
pollution compared to traditional systems, though not as
advanced as electric jets.
 The oil collection storage compartment is basic, focusing on
essential containment without advanced isolation mechanisms.
 Constructed with high-strength plastic or aluminum, which are
less durable but more affordable and easier to manufacture than
zinc alloy.
Best Material for Underwater Robotics:
Choosing materials of the right kind is very important in robotics when it comes
to an underwater robot since they
contribute to durability, help a printed sail function well and are resistant even
during corrosive marine atmospheres.
Key Materials to Consider:
Stainless Steel: — most notably it is corrosion resistant, especially for marine
use.
Aluminum Alloys — lightweight and corrosion-resistant but not as durable at
stainless steel.
Titanium — Corrosion-resistant and strong (superior strength), but up to an order
of magnitude more expensive.
Plasticized elements (PVC, polycarbonate): can be employed where structural
resistance are not needed; resistant to corrosion but less sturdy under voltage
pressures.
Composite material: Good strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance,
but tends to be expensive.
The benefits of using Stainless Steel
Stainless steel like Type 316 is a favorite for underwater applications and offers
the following benefits:
Saltwater Corrosion: Stainless steel has chromium which creates a surface
layer, preventing the metal from rusting as readily and allowing it to last longer in
salt water. Marine
Applications are a common example, where the conditions they operate in make
magnesium corrosion resistant.
The strength of steel: Steel is also strong and durable, with a high tensile
strength-to-weight ratio for use in structural components that will perform well
under the conditions present at sea.
Longevity: Stainless steel offers a high level of material
durability, increasing expected lifespan and likewise reducing the aggregate cost to
maintain or replace machine components.
Safety: Instead of corroding conditions that some other metals may undergo,
stainless steel will retain all its original strength, meaning less dangerous waste
products are a byproduct.

Pricing of Stainless Steel

Currently, the value of stainless steel depends on its grade in recent years. For
example:
304 Stainless Steel = Average price per pound of $1.00 to $1. 316 316 Stainless
Steel: Around $1.50 – $2.0 per pound
These prices are subject to market conditions and some different suppliers.
There are many reasons to choose stainless steel, especially Type 316, for
underwater robotics from superb corrosion resistance all the way through
strength and durability. An investment in better stainless could result in cost
savings over the long term through lower maintenance and improved safety.
Robot Making Features:
Material: It will be made by locally available and cheap metals that can
withstand water pressure and the deep depths of seas especially the Arabian Sea,
which is main sea routes for Pakistan.
Materials like aluminum alloy are very cheap and easy obtainable. 7075 and 6061
are types of aluminum alloys which are lightweight, corrosion-resistant and also
strong enough for moderate-depth underwater operations. They are more affordable
than titanium which is usually used for these types of projects. It will cost $2.00-
$5.00 per kg, meaning it will take $200-$500 as an average sized robot will require
at least 100kg. Based on current dollar rate of 278 Rs, it will be approximately
55,000 PKR-140,000 PKR.
Motors: We will use more basic electric motors for overall movement of the robot
instead of advanced, costly technologies like magnetic drives. These motors can
still be efficient and quiet if properly designed. These electric motors even in they
are cheap, will make the robot’s work quiet and minimize as much sound as
possible.

Arms: Instead of advanced arms with expensive sensors, use of simpler

mechanical arms made from local alloys or stainless steel will ensure durability
and low cost. The arms will still be able to do their work which is to collect
minerals from the seafloor. They will be flexible yet strong so that’s why stainless
steel or aluminum is used. These arms will perform tasks like drilling, cutting, and
picking up minerals, all while maintaining precision. With simple mechanical
designs, the robotic arms ensure cost- effectiveness without compromising
functionality.
Monitoring and Energy Efficiency:
 The robot will be equipped with sensors to collect information and data,
including noise detection.
  The robot will avoid areas with noise, using ultrasonic sensors to detect and
steer clear of such regions.
 Data collected over time will help scientists and engineers assess the long-
term effects of mining on ocean ecosystems.
 This data will be valuable in ensuring future mining activities are
environmentally friendly and sustainable.
 High-capacity lithium-ion batteries will power the robot, offering energy
efficiency and long working periods before recharging.
 The robot will not burn fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
 The robot will also rely on renewable energy, such as solar power.
 Surface buoys equipped with solar panels will be positioned near the robot's
working area to allow recharging when it surfaces.
 This renewable energy approach will further reduce fossil fuel emissions.

Uses:

Mineral Extraction: It will utilize the valuable minerals such as manganese,

nickel, and cobalt from the ocean bottom. Using precision robotic arms, the robot
will collect those minerals minutely without disturbing the greater part of the
surroundings around it. Onboard containers will carry on these minerals to the
surface of the seabed.

It is designed so that it can do minimum damage to the floor of the sea without
punching holes into the bigger ecosystem of the seabed.
Navigation: With advanced navigation systems, the robot will autonomously
survey deep-sea regions. The advancement of sonar, cameras, mapping ocean floor,
and being capable of sensing mineral-rich regions and obstacles such as underwater
ridges or marine life, promises proper navigation to the robot, allowing it to produce
efficient work. It stays at places issued with navigational instructions minimizing
the operations that may look useless.
Sediment Controlling: The robot will reduce the disturbance of sediments
when it is mining through particular tools. That way, the formation of sediment
clouds that can cause losses and harm the marine life will be limited, as will the
penetration of sunlight within the water, maintaining the surroundings of the water
clean and clearer.
Resource Assessment: The robot may inspect and assess the concentration
of minerals in different regions of the seafloor before mining. Thus, resource
analysis will ensure that the mining happens in the most efficient and productive
sites so as not to waste any efforts there, and maximize returns on the extraction
process.

Production:

Design and Prototype: CAD software should be used to design and create
prototypes of the robot.

This is a means through which engineers are able to envision how it would look
and even function-what the structure, components, and functionalities of the robot
would be before the actual production. Prototyping is fundamental for testing and
perfecting the design so that it fulfills all operational requirements and
environmental standards.
Material Selection: M aterials can be chosen based on their strength, weight, and
corrosion resistance suitability. Therefore, for the frame of the appliance, aluminum
alloys or stainless steel would normally be chosen for their strength and lightness.
Lithium-ion batteries are used due to efficiency in energy usages and rubber or
polymer coatings for soundproofing and insulation.

Manufacturing of Components: The selection of the materials would

provide individual parts of the robot, and special processes such as machining,
welding, and 3D printing may be applied to specific parts. With proper fit and
functionality, the use of advanced machining on a robotic arm might become
necessary for the required skill.
Assembling: The components will be then assembled in the manufacturing
facility, with all electric motors, robotic arms, sensors, and battery systems
mounted into the robot's frame. Well-trained technicians will fit all the parts safely
and connect all wiring and electronic systems correctly for the best possible
performance.
Testing: After the assembly of the robot, it is put through tests under controlled
conditions to ensure that all its systems and parts are working fine. These include
waterproof tests, performance of the motors, accuracy of sensors, and
communication reliability. Calibration is done to fine-tune the robot's sensors and
control systems so that it can collect its data accurately and do work efficiently.
After properly tested and calibrated, more of the robots will be produced and then
will be deployed in deep-sea mining operations. Maintenance and updating of
software will be followed too.

App:
 The app would serve as a platform for raising awareness, promoting ocean
conservation, and supporting the development of pollution-cleaning robots.
 Its primary goal would be to educate users about deep-sea migration,
oceanic biodiversity, and other marine activities essential for ecological
balance.
 The app would feature engaging content like articles, videos, and interactive
infographics to highlight the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems and
global environmental health.
 It would generate funding through donations, crowdfunding, and
merchandise sales to support the development and deployment of the robots.
 The app could host virtual campaigns and events to draw attention to
pressing marine issues and attract global supporters.
 A unique feature would be real-time updates on the robot program’s
progress, allowing users to track milestones and foster transparency and
community involvement.
 As robots are deployed, the app would share insights from underwater
missions with scientists, researchers, and experts on pollution hotspots,
sediment conditions, and marine habitat health.
 The app would include live or recorded footage from the robots' cameras,
offering users a rare view of the underwater world and inspiring them to
engage in ocean conservation efforts.
 ROBOT MECHANISM AND FEATURES:

Material Used:
-Materials like Zinc alloy will be used as they are lightweight and resistant to
corrosion, and good for withstanding water pressure making it perfect for
underwater use.
-Composite materials like Boron Fiber and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer to
be used to make robot stronger and lighter.
-Anti biofouling coatings are used to stop marine organisms from attaching to the
robot, ensuring that it works well for longer periods and requiring less
maintenance.
-The robot will be tested multiple times for durability under deep-sea conditions,
such as extreme pressure and temperature changes.

How it works?
-Electric motors are quite quiet, cost-effective and designed to move the robot
smoothly.
-The robot will also use AI to navigate its path effectively and go to places which
are more likely to have minerals rather than wasting time, fuel and disrupting the
ocean floor.
-Jets will provide additional thrust for more faster movements of the robot or
change of direction. They will be placed on the back or rear of the robot.
Arms and Mechanical Extraction:
-Mechanical arms will be made from strong and light materials like Zinc alloy as
mentioned before and these arms will help cut, drill and collect minerals from the
ocean without disruption and positioned on each side so we can get easy access to
floor bed.
-Geological sensors will help the robot find mineral-rich areas by finding out their
placement on the ocean floor by methods like x-ray or magnetic sensors. They
will be placed along the body or on the rear of the robot.

Monitoring and Data collection:

-Lithium-ion batteries will power the robot allowing it to work for a lot of time
without any breaks or needing to resurface. These batteries are a cheap option.
-It will also have underwater charging stations at which it might dock to top it up
if batteries aren’t available. Stationary stations will be placed nearby which will
reduce distant recharging.
-Smart Inductive Charging can be used underwater as its wireless, harmless and
eliminates the necessity for sea weather-proof connectors.
-This will lead to robot working at deeper depths without requiring frequent return
to surface for recharge and robot is capable of navigating back to nearest charging
point whenever running out of energy.

Environmental Impact:
-The robot previously said will be attached with Anti-Biofouling coating which
will prevent marine life to stick or attach to robot which means it environmentally
friendly.
-The robot will easily be able to withstand high water pressure and is noise free so
no sounds or noises which will reduce impact of marine life.
COST ANNALYSIS
 REFERENCES

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industry/?utmsource=perplexity
 https://www.jswonemsme.com/blogs/blogs-articles/the-benefits-and-
challenges-of-using-stainless-steel-in-marine-
environments?utm_source=perplexity
 https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/cost-of-solar-panels/
 https://masteel.co.uk/news/key-differences-between-304-grade-and-316-
marine-grade-stainless- steel/?utm_source=perplexity
 https://www.architecturaldigest.com/reviews/solar/solar-panel-costs
 https://www.outokumpu.com/en/expertise/2023/selecting-subsea-
stainless-steel?utm_source=perplexity
 https://www.scrapgators.com/stainless-steel-price-per-
pound/?utm_source=perplexity
 https://agmetalminer.com/metal-prices/stainless-
steel/?utm_source=perplexity
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 https://www.forbes.com/home- improvement/solar/monocrystalline-
vs-polycrystalline-solar-panels/
 https://aurorasolar.com/blog/solar-panel-types-guide/
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%20disruption%20to%20marine%20life%20whale%20strandings%20scien
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mariana-archipelago-may-be-associated-sonar
 https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0017009
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 ENDORSEMENT:
The team has well-researched on the subject and have presented a detailed
assessment about the robot’s design and functionality that is worthy of praise.
With the world’s increasing focus to protecting marine life and harnessing
sustainable energy, such an initiative would well cover both these aspects, while also
utilizing cutting-edge technology and being environment-friendly that would enable
the robots to be more efficient and not disturb the marine life.
Nautilus Minerals’ Seafloor Protection Tools (SPTs), developed by Nautilus
Minerals, is considered a pioneer in this aspect. It was amongst the first few to come
up with the idea of using high-tech robots to extract minerals such as gold, copper
and silver from hydrothermal vents. While the initiative posed opposition from
environmental groups along with financial constraints, this initiative paved the way
for further research in this area.
The project covers in detail all the major aspects required, from usage of technology
to design, while also covering the costs associated with it. While creating such a kind
of robot that aptly covers all the areas mentioned in this project may be a difficult
endeavor, but with the rapid advancement in technology, I expect to see a real-life
prototype within a matter of few years.
I believe that the group’s research calls for support and recognition from academic
and environmental institutions. It embodies the kind of forward-thinking innovation
that our world needs to tackle the complex challenges of resource management and
environmental conservation.

Engr. Yasir Ahmad Shaikh

Senior Process Support Manager
Lotte Chemical Pakistan Limited