Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGDThe OTC-Tracker is a forward-looking research project driving the digital transformation of the maritime industry. Aiming to make underwater missions more efficient, safer, and more sustainable, Fraunhofer IGD and its partners are developing an intelligent assistance system for the various stages of modern ROV inspections.
With the OTC-Tracker, new standards are being set for the planning, execution, and documentation of underwater operations. The system offers an innovative approach to meeting the challenges of the offshore environment and increasing productivity.
Project Description
ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) play a central role in inspections and maintenance in the offshore sector—for example, for wind turbines, pipelines, or aquaculture facilities. However, preparing, controlling, and thoroughly documenting these operations requires a high level of precision. The OTC-Tracker provides digital mission assistance that intelligently connects planning, real-time monitoring, and post-mission processing. The system integrates advanced technologies such as visual analytics, IoT components, and AI-powered algorithms. A specially developed camera module supports reliable underwater pose detection. The solution has been successfully tested with application partners and demonstrated that efficiency, safety, and sustainability can be improved through digital operations.
Benefits & Outlook
The OTC-Tracker enhances the competitiveness of the offshore industry, supports resource conservation, and enables innovative services related to digital twins and visual analytics. The results influence current developments and will be further expanded in future projects and research initiatives.
