Lobster Robotics

Research Themes: Robotics, Software technology & Intelligent Systems, Water & Maritime


A TRL is a measure to indicate the matureness of a developing technology. When an innovative idea is discovered it is often not directly suitable for application. Usually such novel idea is subjected to further experimentation, testing and prototyping before it can be implemented. The image below shows how to read TRL’s to categorise the innovative ideas.

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Summary of the project


Lobster uses advanced robots to photograph the seafloor in order to support offshore wind developers, consultants and government to understand the undersea environment and make informed decisions. The greatest challenge in this field is to take photos in a consistent manner despite complex, turbid or dynamic conditions underwater. This has to be done at a scale relevant to emerging concerns regarding offshore energy development. Our robots are innovative as we achieve great performance at minimal hardware cost through vertical integration, and design autonomous control systems to ensure consistency across the data. This unique approach enables us to deliver data very cost-effectively. Other providers of seabed data on the market are reliant on equipment suppliers and their subcontractors to innovate, which makes them unable to quickly respond to the emerging market for large scale, high resolution seabed mapping. Currently, we are focused on working with clients in the offshore wind and research sectors, helping them to track changes in marine ecology and to comply with environmental regulations. The benefit for our clients is the acquisition of accurate data that can assist in the planning and monitoring of their projects, without the need for extensive offshore personnel, thus saving them additional time and resources.

What's next?


Next, we plan to expand our pilot projects, particularly in the offshore wind sector, to fine-tune our robotic technology based on real-world feedback. Our ultimate goal is to establish our position as a reliable partner in various maritime sectors

Contribution to the Energy transition: 


Lobster Robotics helps set up green energy projects responsibly by offering clear pictures of the sea floor. This way, we make it easier and safer to build things like wind farms at sea.

Stephan Rutten MSc

CEO and Co-founder