Meet the underwater robot developed in Bahia that inspects oil fields around the world

FlatFish is Brazil's first autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). Launched in 2014, the project was developed by Senai CIMATEC in Salvador , in partnership with Shell Brasil and the German Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (DFKI).

The robot was designed to perform inspections and monitor underwater infrastructure. The equipment collects data and generates high-resolution three-dimensional images, which help anticipate anomalies in equipment and structures and prevent accidents.

The device can reach depths of up to 3,000 meters, and its advantages include the ability to move in all directions, without direct human intervention and without being umbilically connected to other equipment.

Another feature of the robot is its long underwater autonomy, which, according to the developers, eliminates the need for constant support vessels during operations. The equipment can be recharged after each mission in an "underwater garage."

Senai CIMATEC's executive manager, Leonardo Nardy, recalled the challenges faced throughout the project's 10-year development. The difficulties began with assembling the specialized robotics team and the need to exchange knowledge with international organizations.

"Part of our team went to Germany and part of their team came to Bahia; the tests in the waters of Bahia de Todos os Santos, on board an adapted catamaran; and now, participation in the industrialization process," he listed.

The initiative received investment from the Research & Development clause of the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) and support from the Brazilian Company for Industrial Research and Innovation (Embrapii).

In 2018, the technology was licensed to Saipem, a company responsible for deepwater industrialization. Since then, FlatFish has incorporated new features. The robot is now being tested through a Multiclient Project (JIP), which also included Petrobras' participation, and in pilot tests conducted in the Campos Basin.

"The AUV has already been successfully tested in a controlled environment in Italy and offshore in Brazil. Saipem has been using the vehicle for internal services in the Middle East. A second vehicle has been manufactured and is undergoing final testing to serve the Brazilian market," said Rosane Zagatti, technology manager at Shell Brazil.

💡 UNDERSTAND: Offshore activities are carried out on the high seas, often associated with the exploration and production of oil and gas.

The developers emphasize that FlatFish has been gaining traction, including in international awards. They attribute the positive feedback to its innovative potential, demonstrated success, broad commercial appeal, and ability to make a significant impact on the offshore sector.

"We believe that the development of disruptive technologies like FlatFish represents a strategic advance on several fronts, including safety, operational efficiency, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, throughout the project, Shell invested in training Brazilian professionals, strengthening the country's innovation ecosystem," concluded Rosane.

FlatFish's contributions aren't limited to deep waters. Following the robot's development, a Robotics and Autonomous Systems Competence Center was created at Senai CIMATEC in Bahia. The center trains young engineers for the Brazilian market.

Leonardo Nardy emphasizes that Senai CIMATEC's vast portfolio of technology development projects in robotics applied to oil and gas, as well as other industrial segments, positions it as a benchmark in robotics in Brazil.

"In addition to training new professionals, developing a project like FlatFish generates a wealth of knowledge. When it comes to autonomous systems, we have a myriad of uses and applications. This same technology can be used to inspect other types of equipment and perform environmental inspections, including offshore," Leonardo argued.

The executive manager also highlights another important achievement: Senai CIMATEC Mar. The facility was designed to support industrial and commercial maritime activities and research, with the goal of strengthening innovation and sustainability, and meeting the growing demands of the Maritime Economy.

"It's an idea that came up a long time ago, and the development of FlatFish allowed us to strengthen our portfolio, experience the waters of Bahia de Todos os Santos, which has the necessary characteristics for the development of SENAI CIMATEC MAR, and thus we were able to move forward with the project," he concluded.

The wealth generated in Bahia and the fate it takes in the world return to TV Bahia's screen in the new season of "Onde Tem Bahia", which premieres this Friday (25) . The special program will be shown in two episodes, always after Globo Repórter, and highlights the strategic importance of the maritime economy for the development of the state and Brazil.

The project, presented by journalist Eduardo Oliveira, broadens horizons and reinforces the value of local production.

In this second season, the TV Bahia team crossed continents to show how products and solutions created in Bahia generate business opportunities and growth in Europe, South America, and North America.

"Onde tem Bahia" focuses on multiplatform content. In addition to television, short programs will be broadcast on Bahia FM radio (88.7 FM) and on TV Bahia's social media channels.

See more news from the state on g1 Bahia .