Project Manta: Creation of a Submersible Marine Research Robot

Project Manta is a proposed multidisciplinary scheme involving potential for collaboration between the areas of art and design, electrical technology, engineering, information systems and marine studies. The objective is to create a semi-autonomous robotic device for use within marine aquatic environments and significant sized deep lake habitats.

The completed device will be freely given to the marine studies department for use within its courses and programs. The device will be designed as a multifunctional unit capable of sensing and reacting to its local environment.

The proposed end use is to aid both teaching and learning within the academic arena as well as delivering tangible benefits through active research and underwater exploration for professional business environments.

The robot’s capabilities will enable the marine studies department to undertake research in places that are potentially hazardous or logistically unfeasible for human researchers.

The project will progress through discrete phases enabling an overall design and construction methodology to be established. Each phase will enable specific concepts to be investigated and addressed.