114 



In most instances it was agreed that photographic documentation would 

 not likely be replaced by video tape since TV does not compare in quality 

 of resolution with photographic film. 



Color - Color TV is not a standard capability on conventional ROVs. The 

 poor quality of color rendition was ascribed as the overriding factor. 

 Several operators feel that color would be useful, especially for non- 

 destructive testing, but there was no pressing demand for it at present. 

 The operator of a scientifically oriented vehicle did see an immediate 

 need for color television since a great deal of geological and, parti- 

 cularly, biological identification is based on color. 



3-Dimensional TV - 3-dimensional television is commercially available 

 for ROVs. Only one operator felt it was necessary at present, although 

 several felt that it might be helpful in conducting manipulative tasks. 

 The overall opinion was that the added complexity and loss of resolution 

 which accompanies adaption of a 3-dimensional system were not worth 

 the cost. 



4.2 1 OTHERS 



Almost all ROV operators had a particular problem with their vehicle that was 

 peculiar to their design or the operation they were conducting. These problems 

 are difficult to place and quantify in the foregoing discussion, consequently, 

 they are dealt with in this category. Conversely, all operators place a high 

 value on the need for - and lack of - experienced, qualified personnel, and on 

 the need for reliable systems. The personnel problem is outside the purvey of 

 this technical assessment, however, since the human component of the ROV system 

 is as critical as the most important electrical or mechanical component, some 

 discussion of this aspect cannot be ignored. Following are qualitative discussions 

 of specific technical problems and human element considerations. 



4. 21. a Reliability 



A pressing need for greater system reliability was expressed, particularly in 

 system electronics. It is felt that a reduction in technology and increase 

 in reliability would benefit the entire field. Since no more than two or 

 three years field operations have been undergone by most vehicles, many of the 

 problems accompanying the first vehicles are still present. A thorough, practical 

 shakedown of each vehicle was suggested as a remedy to many of the problems 

 the operator would confront subsequent to obtaining the vehicle. It is felt, 

 by some, that an increase in reliability would permit a reduction in the size 

 of the field party and, consequently, a decrease in operational costs. 



4.21.b Growth Potential 



Although most operators are satisfied with the present capability of vehicle 

 systems to accumulate and transfer data to the surface, some are working toward 

 increasing the data quantity and expressed the need for improvements. 

 Specifically, the multiplexers currently in use do not have as high a data rate 

 as the operator desires to increase the capability of his system. The lack 

 of more broader band multiplexers was seen as inhibiting the growth of the 

 field. 



