OceanOne K is the newest generation of underwater humanoid robot designed for deep sea exploration with bimanual manipulation, stereo vision, and human-robot haptic interaction capabilities. With a maximum depth of meters, the robot can reach sites considerably deeper underwater than OceanOne, enabling it to explore a wider variety of aquatic ecosystems. Through haptic feedback, OceanOne K O2K allows researchers to interact with underwater environments and flexibly operate with tools and equipment.
For its final mission, OceanOne K performed a deep dive to m off the coast of Cannes - the first time a humanoid robot had reached such depths touching the seafloor. Navigation, bimanual manipulation, whole-body control, and vision algorithms were validated in an improvised shallow water environment. After rigorous testing, OceanOne K was ready for the Mediterranean depths. O2K in the pool. Grasping with O2K's underactuated, 4-fingered hand. O2K grasping a cup on an underwater platform.
Performing bimanual manipulation. Receiving an object delivered by O2K. Guidance through haptic interaction. Haptic, vision, and navigation control setup. The Alfred Merlin is the science vessel that served as the team's base during missions. The new underwater archaeological research vessel of the Drassm was launched in , enabling robots onboard to reach depths of up to meters. Alfred Merlin. Positioning O2K over the water.
Performing maintenance on O2K. Deploying O2K at night. O2K explored a P plane wreck found in excellent condition at shallow depths off La Ciotat. O2K inspecting the P from overhead. O2K inspecting the plane's tails. Haptic guidance during exploration. O2K's right eye view showing interaction with a propeller. Bastia is a city in the Haute-Corse department of France on the island of Corsica. At the site, the ship's inventory was strewn across the seafloor, including many unique vases and lamps.
O2K navigating the shipwreck site. O2K grasping an oil lamp. Close-up view of O2K grasping for an oil lamp. A AD Roman oil lamp from the seafloor. A AD Roman vase from the seafloor. The shipwreck has transformed into an aquatic ecosystem populated with corals and sea life. Coral growth on the Crispi. O2K placing a reference measurement marker.
