TECH – A team at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has developed an unmanned, AI-powered underwater robot capable of detecting and retrieving rubbish from the seabed, as part of the EU’s SeaClear 2.0 initiative.
The system begins with an unmanned surface vessel that sends sonar signals to map the seabed and provides both power and data connectivity to its robotic units. A compact underwater “search robot” — only about 50 centimeters long — scans the undersea surface with cameras and sonar, relaying its findings back to the system.
Once the AI spots a piece of trash, the larger diving robot springs into action. Equipped with eight mini‐turbines, it maneuvers precisely to the targeted debris, then grips it with a powerful four-fingered claw. The robotic hand can exert up to 4,000 newtons of force enough to lift objects weighing as much as 250 kg but thanks to sensitive force sensors, it can also delicately handle fragile items like glass bottles.
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To train its AI, the team labeled thousands of underwater images more than 7.000, so the system can distinguish litter from natural objects. Once it identifies the shape and orientation of debris, the AI creates 3D models to help the gripper find the best way to grab each item.
The robot stays tethered to the surface boat via a cable, which provides continuous power and data link. This tether also doubles as a winch cable, allowing the robot to hoist heavy trash up to the surface so it can be deposited into a collection container on board. The diving unit also has buoyancy foam around its frame, helping it hover steadily when not actively propelling itself.
This sea-clearing machine has undergone real-world testing: in Marseille’s port, it successfully collected a variety of debris, including old car seats and tires. According to TUM’s analysis, this system is already cost-effective compared to human divers when operating at depths of 16 meters or more.
While the technology isn’t yet a universal fix for all marine pollution, the researchers believe it could make a big difference in hotspots like harbors, where submerged waste is both abundant and dangerous.
