Aqua Robotics

Aqua Robotics addresses the critical challenge of biofouling on fish farm nets. Traditional cleaning methods, such as high-pressure washing, are stressful for the fish and can release harmful copper-based antifouling agents into the marine environment. To solve this, the company developed the HALO Net Maintenance System, an automated robotic solution designed for continuous, gentle cleaning. The business operates on a pay-per-service model, providing the HALO system as a comprehensive service that includes the robot, remote monitoring, and maintenance, making the cost comparable to conventional methods while offering added benefits. This approach targets aquaculture businesses, with a significant partnership established with Mowi, a major salmon producer, to deploy the technology across all its facilities.

The HALO system consists of several components: a track installed around the cage, a mobile robot powered by a wireless inductive charging station, and the cleaning unit itself. The robot moves along the track and deploys the HALO Cleaner, a brushing unit with a patented design that cleans both the inside and outside of the net simultaneously. This continuous, gentle brushing prevents the buildup of marine growth, ensuring better water exchange and oxygenation, which is vital for fish health. Key benefits include reduced fish stress, elimination of the need for copper-based coatings, and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions—estimated at 21-24 tons per cage annually—by minimizing the use of service vessels for cleaning. The system operates 24/7, is monitored remotely, and can be controlled by farm operators via mobile devices.