Modifications to low-cost remotely operated vehicles for scientific sampling

Development of a series of modifications and sampling systems for off-the-shelf remotely operated vehicles (ROV) MiniRover MK I and MK II. An integral raised skid, mounting bar, and modified single function manipulator/grab package were constructed to serve as the mounting base for the samplers. Tube cores, plankton nets, and a water pump system are used for collecting samples. A modular sample receptacle serves as a tether downweight and provides a payload capability for greater than the ROV's. The downweight is capable of carrying sensor packages to collect oceanographic datas during dives