Tethys Robotics presents underwater robots at HYDRO 2024
Tethys Robotics is bringing new precision to underwater inspection with its autonomous robot Tethys ONE. The technology enables high-precision 3D maps in real time and facilitates construction projects and safety inspections in bodies of water.
Tethys Robotics intends to redefine the underwater inspection of hydropower plants. According to a company press release, the autonomous underwater robot Tethys ONE brings a new level of precision to the inspection process for hydropower plants. It enables those responsible to capture high-precision georeferenced 3D maps and detailed photogrammetric models in real time, even in flow-intensive environments. “By reducing the reliance on human divers and providing reliable, high-quality data, Tethys ONE sets a new standard for underwater inspection of hydropower facilities worldwide,” says its manufacturer.
The Tethys ONE was launched in August 2024. Following successful pilot projects in Swiss hydropower plants, the spin-off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich now wants to make its transformative technology available to international plant owners and service providers. At HYDRO 2024, which takes place in Graz from November 18 to 20, Tethys Robotics is reportedly looking forward to discussing potential partnerships with them.
According to Tethys Robotics, its cutting-edge surveying technology is also “a powerful tool for municipalities”, “helping to ensure the stability and safety of critical underwater structures and assisting in the planning of future construction projects”. On behalf of the Zurich Office for Waste, Water, Energy and Air, the company recently completed underwater investigations in the River Limmat around the historic bridges at the town hall and cathedral.
The Tethys ONE mapped a total underwater area of over 6000 square meters around these bridges. The Zurich authorities reportedly praised the project as a great success. The insights gained should now facilitate the preparatory construction investigations by the Zurich Civil Engineering Office.