DEVELOPMENT OF AN UNDERWATER ROV SYSTEM FOR SUBMARINE CABLE MAINTENANCE

Present high-speed and large-volume data communication can be considerably disrupted by malfunctions in submarine telecommunication cables, thus cable maintenance is extremely important. IHI, in partnership with Perry Tritech Inc., U.S.A., have developed an underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) system with Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp. for repairing, burying and inspecting submarine cables more speedily and at greater depth than conventional processes. The system has achieved excellent operability, reducing operator fatigue and surpassing performances in cable burial and location, etc. Since its entrance into service in October, 1989, the system has been successfully operated in various sea areas around Japan with a crew of three or four for operation and maintenance.