AI and Robotics Ventures (ARV), a subsidiary of PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP), and Mermaid Subsea Services Thailand (MSST), a subsidiary company of Mermaid Maritime, have formed a joint venture to develop AI and robotics to ease underwater repairs.
ZeaQuest will develop technologies to provide underwater inspection, repair and maintenance services for the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors worldwide.
The company has registered capital of US$5 million (155 million baht) and a 50:50 ownership ratio in the joint venture between MSST and ARV.
The company aims to be an international leader in subsea services utilising AI and robotics technology.
"ARV specialises in R&D of AI and robotics technologies for petroleum exploration and production and non-E&P industries," said Thana Slanvetpan, general manager of ARV. "This partnership between Mermaid and ARV is a critical milestone in the utilisation of highly complex AI and robotics technologies in surveillance, inspection, repair and maintenance of subsea infrastructure and equipment."
ARV is developing technology that includes an inspection-class autonomous underwater vehicle (Xplorer), a subsea flowline control and repair robot (Nautilus) and software and data analytics technologies using the Internet of Things.
"Having served the offshore service industry for over 30 years with operations spanning from Singapore, Indonesia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates to the United Kingdom, Mermaid covers a comprehensive range of subsea solutions, including subsea vessels, subsea engineering, remotely operated vehicle, as well as offshore drilling," said Chalermchai Mahagitsiri, chief executive of Mermaid.
"With a proven track record and comprehensive services, Mermaid has gained trust from customers across the globe," he said. "What our customers expect from us are cutting-edge technologies and competent personnel."