Hall of Fame
Our past ROVs
KELP-I
KELP-I was Kelpie Robotics’ debut ROV. Equipped with a camera array and object manipulator, it was designed to meet the specifications required to compete on the global stage. Nicknamed “the tie-fighter”, the vehicle’s frame was largely inspired by a quadcopter design, due to the benefits to weight distribution. Utilizing 6 thrusters, the ROV was given mobility in four cardinal directions, as well as rotation around a fixed pivot. All components combined had a total weight of 17.4kg and the volume was 50cm x 50cm x 40cm. One of the tools used was a custom-modified gripper. This singular tool allowed KELP-I to complete numerous tasks. The team ranked 13th out of 20 teams at World Championships in the Explorer Class.
KELP-II
KELP-II prioritized maneuverability, modularity, and efficiency. This was achieved through the inclusion of a modular system for onboard electronics, a custom power monitoring system, and a virtual reality compatible pilot interface and copilot graphical user interface pair. The frame was constructed from lightweight aluminum extrusion and taps for rigidity. The ROV weighed in at 23.5kg with a volume of 60cm x 60cm x 50cm. Additionally, the design utilized three servo-mounted cameras, to ensure a wide field of vision, as well as 8 thrusters for increased range of motion in 6 degrees of freedom. This year the team ranked 18th out of 23 overall in the World Championship.
SELK-I
SELK-I was designed to be lightweight and high-performance. The ROV included 8 thrusters and cameras mounted both to servos and statically. Built from aluminum U-channels, joints and custom 3D printed components, it weighed in at 18.1kg and had a volume that was half the size of the previous year’s design. This design also included upgraded electronic components, including a new Pixhawk, orange Pi, and 9 ESCs. The ROV featured a claw manipulator system, using different arms for grasping large objects and precision tasks. The tools were designed to be easily interchangeable, making the transition between tasks smooth and effortless. At the World Championships, Kelpie scored 14 out of 24, smashing our previous performances.
SELK-II
Our smallest ROV to date, SELK-II was designed to be as agile and compact as possible in order to complete tasks with ease. It is made from an aluminum base plate with aluminum U-channels forming a frame to support the tools, buoyancy, and the tether’s strain relief. The design was centred around the base plate, allowing for increased stability of the ROV. The 8 thrusters on the frame feature an updated shroud design which aids in SELK-II’s compact footprint. Three cameras make up the field of view with the main navigation camera being servo-mounted beneath the plate, enabling a bi-directional tool setup. The tools featured in the design include a claw, a spinning hook, and a quick-release mount for extra attachments. SELK-II is Kelpie’s best performance to date at the World Championships, earning 13/36 overall and our best in-pool score by over 100 points!