Tethys Robotics, a Zurich-based ETH Spin-Off specializing in underwater robotics, has launched Tethys ONE, a novel underwater robot designed for automated inspections in challenging aquatic environments. This launch marks a new era for Tethys, as the startup starts onboarding clients for the commercialization phase.
Tethys Robotics was founded by Jonas Wüst and Pragash Sivananthaguru from research conducted at ETH Zürich. Its flagship product Tethys ONE is equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and navigation systems that allow it to perform inspections and surveys even in turbid and rough waters, giving it the ability to operate in challenging underwater environments which addresses a critical need in the industry, where human divers often face serious risks in such conditions.
Tethys ONE operates both via remote pilot control (ROV) and in full autonomous mode (AUV), making it ideal for a wide range of applications, including hydro energy, offshore wind, oil and gas, and even ammunition detection and police work. Ahead of the current launch, the robot underwent years of rigorous testing and collaboration. Since its inception, Tethys Robotics has partnered with various organizations, including the Swiss Drones and Robotics Centre, Swiss Armed Forces EOD team, and police departments in Zurich and Geneva. These partnerships have been crucial in refining the robot's capabilities and proving its effectiveness in real-world scenarios, as revealed by co-founder, Jonas Wüst.
The launch of Tethys ONE at the end of August 2024 (watch Video) represents a significant step forward in automating underwater inspections across multiple industries. Alongside its ongoing pilot collaborations with companies that have shown interest in extending the partnership by becoming customers, Tethys is currently in negotiations with some of the world’s leading companies for its pilot projects and adopter programs. “We are planning demonstrations with about 20 promising companies within the next few months” elaborated Jonas Wüst who also asserted the importance of these partnerships as the company transitions from pilot phases to full-scale deployment.
Tethys offers both hardware sales and software leasing options which are sold directly to asset owners and governmental agencies, and service providers. The company is also exploring a Robotics as a Service (RaaS) model to cater to diverse customer needs. With a team of 10 full-time employees and backing from Wyss Zurich, Tethys Robotics is well positioned for rapid growth and innovation in the underwater robotics sector.
(RAN)
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