Introduction

As the subsea frontier expands into ever-deeper, more challenging, and complex environments, the demand for highly skilled Advanced ROV Pilot Technicians is skyrocketing. Moving beyond foundational piloting, this specialized field requires mastery of complex intervention tasks, advanced sensor integration, intricate navigation in dynamic conditions, and sophisticated troubleshooting of work-class and specialized ROVs. The next generation of subsea operations relies heavily on autonomous functionalities, data analytics, and real-time decision-making from the surface, pushing the boundaries of what these incredible machines can achieve. Professionals who can strategically deploy, intricately operate, and expertly maintain these advanced systems are invaluable assets, driving efficiency, safety, and innovation across critical sectors like deep-water oil & gas, renewable energy installations, subsea mining, and complex salvage operations. This essential training course focuses on Advanced Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), equipping experienced personnel with the expertise to lead complex subsea missions and push the boundaries of underwater robotics.

This intensive training course provides a comprehensive and practical guide to operating and maintaining advanced underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), specifically focusing on work-class and specialized intervention vehicles. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of complex ROV systems, advanced subsea tooling, and intricate operational procedures. We will delve into topics such as deep-water navigation, acoustic positioning systems, multi-sensor data fusion, and advanced fault finding and repair techniques. The course will cover the strategic aspects of subsea intervention, umbilical management in dynamic conditions, and the integration of autonomous functions and AI in ROV operations. By mastering the technical intricacies and strategic applications of advanced ROVs, you will be equipped to lead and execute high-stakes subsea missions, ensuring optimal performance and safety in challenging deep-water environments.

Target Audience

• Experienced ROV Pilot Technicians (Observation Class or similar)
• Subsea Engineers & Project Managers
• Offshore Supervisors & Superintendents
• Marine Technicians & Electricians seeking specialization
• Robotics Engineers interested in subsea applications
• Technical Personnel involved in Subsea Construction & Maintenance
• Military & Defense Underwater Operations Specialists
• Research & Development Professionals in Marine Robotics

Course Objectives

• Master the advanced components and complex systems of Work-Class and specialized ROVs.
• Develop expert-level proficiency in piloting and manipulating ROVs for intricate subsea tasks.
• Gain in-depth knowledge of advanced acoustic positioning systems (e.g., USBL, LBL) and their calibration.
• Learn to integrate and operate sophisticated sensor suites for detailed subsea data acquisition.
• Acquire advanced skills in troubleshooting, fault diagnosis, and repair of complex ROV electrical, electronic, and hydraulic systems.
• Understand the principles and application of subsea intervention tooling and manipulators for various operations.
• Develop expertise in managing long umbilicals and tethers in deep-water and high-current environments.
• Explore automation, semi-autonomy, and artificial intelligence (AI) in next-generation ROV operations.
• Comprehend subsea communication protocols and data telemetry for advanced missions.
• Learn to plan and execute complex work-class ROV missions for construction, inspection, and intervention.
• Practice advanced emergency response and contingency planning for deep-water ROV incidents.

DURATION

10 Days

Course Content

Module 1: Advanced ROV Systems & Architecture

• Work-class ROV classification and design differences.
• Complex electrical and electronic systems in advanced ROVs.
• High-pressure hydraulic systems and components.
• Fiber optic telemetry and data transmission for deep water.
• Control system architecture and programming interfaces.

Module 2: Deep-Water Piloting & Maneuvering

• Advanced piloting techniques for heavy-lift and precision tasks.
• Maneuvering in high currents and challenging visibility.
• Dynamic positioning (DP) system integration with ROV controls.
• Operating multiple thrusters for complex movements.
• Simulated deep-water scenarios and precision docking.

Module 3: Advanced Subsea Navigation & Positioning

• Ultra-Short Baseline (USBL) and Long Baseline (LBL) acoustic positioning systems.
• Calibration and troubleshooting of acoustic systems.
• Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) and their integration.
• Integrating DVL (Doppler Velocity Log) and altimeters for precise localization.
• Planning and executing survey patterns for complex subsea structures.

Module 4: Work-Class ROV Tooling & Manipulators

• Operation and maintenance of 7-function manipulators.
• Interchangeable tooling skids and hydraulic power units (HPUs).
• Specialized subsea tools: torque tools, cutting tools, hot stabs, grinding tools.
• Tool deployment, retrieval, and interface management.
• Simulated tasks requiring advanced manipulation skills.

Module 5: Advanced ROV Maintenance & Fault Finding

• Systematic troubleshooting methodologies for complex faults.
• Electrical fault diagnosis: circuit analysis, insulation testing.
• Hydraulic system diagnostics: pressure testing, fluid analysis, component replacement.
• Fiber optic cable repair and termination.
• Advanced preventative maintenance strategies for work-class ROVs.

Module 6: Subsea Intervention Operations

• ROV role in offshore construction and installation.
• Pipeline and cable intervention and repair.
• Drilling support and wellhead intervention.
• Decommissioning and salvage operations.
• Introduction to subsea tree installation and maintenance.

Module 7: Umbilical & Tether Management Systems (TMS)

• Advanced TMS operation and maintenance.
• Managing long umbilicals in deep water and dynamic conditions.
• Tensioning, spooling, and cable inspection techniques.
• Understanding umbilical cross-section and fiber optic integrity.
• Emergency umbilical recovery procedures.

Module 8: Sensor Integration & Data Fusion

• Operation of advanced sonars: multibeam, imaging, gap-filler.
• 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry for subsea mapping.
• CP (Cathodic Protection) probes and other inspection sensors.
• Integrating data from multiple sensors for comprehensive surveys.
• Real-time data visualization and processing onboard.

Module 9: Subsea Communication & Telemetry

• Advanced fiber optic communication principles.
• Acoustic modems for through-water communication.
• Ethernet over fiber and IP networking subsea.
• Data logging, bandwidth management, and secure data transfer.
• Troubleshooting communication link issues.

Module 10: Automation, Autonomy & AI in ROVs

• Introduction to semi-autonomous ROV functions: auto-heading, auto-depth, auto-position.
• Path planning and obstacle avoidance algorithms.
• Machine learning for image recognition and anomaly detection.
• AI-driven data analysis for predictive maintenance.
• Future trends in fully autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and collaboration.

Module 11: Emergency Response & Contingency Planning (Advanced)

• Responding to major ROV failures: power loss, entanglement, lost vehicle.
• Deep-water recovery procedures and specialized tools.
• Accident investigation and reporting protocols.
• Developing comprehensive emergency response plans.
• Tabletop exercises for complex emergency scenarios.

Module 12: Project Planning & Mission Execution

• Analyzing mission requirements and defining ROV work scope.
• Developing detailed operational procedures (SOPs).
• Risk assessment and mitigation planning for complex missions.
• Resource allocation and logistics for ROV operations.
• Post-mission reporting and lessons learned.

Module 13: Subsea Environmental & Regulatory Compliance

• Environmental impact assessments for subsea operations.
• Compliance with international marine regulations.
• ROV operations in sensitive marine environments.
• Permitting requirements for subsea activities.
• Data privacy and security for collected subsea information.

Module 14: Human Factors & Team Management in ROV Operations

• Crew resource management (CRM) for ROV teams.
• Decision-making under pressure and fatigue management.
• Effective communication and handovers within the control room.
• Leadership and supervision in demanding subsea projects.
• Building a highly skilled and cohesive ROV team.

Module 15: Future of Subsea Robotics & Career Paths

• Emerging technologies: hybrid ROV/AUVs, resident ROVs.
• Expansion into new industries: deep-sea mining, aquaculture.
• Career progression for advanced ROV Pilot Technicians.
• Certification pathways (e.g., IMCA, industry specific).
• Continuous professional development and skill upgrades.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.