Design and Underwater Tests of Subsea Walking Hexapod MAK-1

Abstract

An important role among machines for sea bottom exploration is assigned to the autonomous ground devices. Some rescue tasks also require subsea robotic devices. The main purpose of the work is to investigate and improve adaptive characteristics, traction properties and control methods of cyclic walking movers in underwater conditions. Traction properties of walking machines, which moves at sea bottom was analyzed. Some experience of development and experimental tests of the walking robot “Vosminog”, designed for work at weak and waterlogged grounds. Dynamic model of a walking machine has been shown. Studied an opportunity to increase adaptive characteristics and shape passableness of walking machines. Also design and results of underwater tests of subsea walking unit MAK-1 are discussed. During tests the performance of a walking unit has been checked and the influence of design features of a walking mover on its traction characteristics and ground passability has been investigated. Some details about control system, power system and energy usage, vertical motions and accelerations for different types of walking and conditions of movement has been given. Also, certain attention was given to testing of methods of standalone movement control of subsea unit in conditions of incomplete and ambiguous vision of current situation. Tests have shown that walking movers in subsea conditions can provide higher traction properties, in comparison with wheeled and tracked ones. The unit can be used for exploration of seabed resources and for rescue tasks.