After evaluating a first functional prototype, the SeaClear gripper goes into manufacturing to produce a rugged, waterproof version for our trials. This device is designed and implemented by our partners at TUM. This version is decidedly simple for robust operation under harsh conditions and will provide a baseline for comparing its efficiency to upgrades with suction capabilities and other advanced features.

As the SeaClear project progresses, Fraunhofer CML has been busy with the design and development of the collection basket for the autonomous system. The basket is designated to aggregate collected litter and ensure a safe transport out of the water and later on to shore, at the end of each mission. A modular prototype was built that allows for experiments with different wall materials, ROV-to-Basket docking areas, and Gripper-to-Basket interfaces.

The youtube channel Breaking Lab has recently featured the SeaClear project in one of their episodes. Breaking lab is a channel that tries to explain complex scientific concepts to the general public. Jacob Beautemps and his team compiled a video that outlines the problem of plastics in the Ocean, the difficulty of cleaning it up with divers, and what are the advantages of using robotic solutions, before presenting the SeaClear concept.
Below you can watch the episode (in German)

Following up the news of SeaCat acquisition by Subsea Tech, we are proud to announce that SubSea Tech has completed the first trials of SeaCat in the sea. In the video below you see the deployment of the vessel in the port of Marseille and how it is able to navigate autonomously in the area.