Design and Fabrication of the Underwater Robot

Corrosion continues to be a critical concern for submerged metallic structures such as ship hulls, offshore platforms, and marine pipelines, especially due to the harsh marine environment. Conventional inspection methods relying on human divers often involve high cost, extended time, and considerable risk. This paper discusses the design and theoretical analysis of a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) prototype developed for the purpose of non-destructive inspection. The system incorporates a modular stainless-steel frame for stability, supported by bilge-pump based propulsion that enable precise maneuverability. A structured framework including buoyancy estimation, thrust force calculation, and structural validation was established to ensure operational reliability. The prototype was tested in a controlled aquatic setup, confirming stable locomotion and effective control, thereby demonstrating readiness for integration with corrosion detection modules. This framework highlights the feasibility of employing an ROV as a cost-effective, safe, and reliable platform for real-time underwater structural health monitoring.