The Application of Stereoscopic Video to Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles

A Stereoscopic Video System for use with Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) has been developed by Curtin University's Centre for Marine Science and Technology. The system provides ROV operators with a fully three-dimensional (stereoscopic) view of the ROVs surroundings. This increased perception of depth offers several advantages to both the piloting of ROVs and also to the operation of an ROV manipulator arm. The stereoscopic video system consists of an underwater stereoscopic video camera which fits on the ROV and a stereoscopic display which is installed in the ship-based ROV control room. The system was developed in close cooperation with Woodside Offshore Petroleum who have used the system on their Triton ROV. Three ROVs are currently operated at Woodside's oil fields on Western Australia's North West Shelf. Field use of the system on the Triton ROV has revealed many advantages of stereoscopic video. One of the areas where advantages are particularly evident is in the operation of the manipulator arm. Operators have reported that it is perceptually easier to perform manipulator tasks. This is because the spatial relationship of objects can be immediately identified, making object placement and alignment easier. The system also provides a better understanding of the work site and a perceived improvement in image quality and therefore improved visibility.