SCOOBEE

SCOOBEE is MOBY Robotics’ autonomous seafloor crawler for physical collection of polymetallic nodules. A group of crawlers is carried to the seabed inside the SmartLift module, then deployed as a coordinated swarm. Computer vision guides each unit toward selected nodules and supports active avoidance of marine life during collection.

The crawler deposits recovered material into SmartLift for retrieval by the wider Mineral Production Platform. MOBY designs the deep-sea fleet for depths to 6,000 metres and uses a mesh-based collection method that allows water and fine sediment to pass through while retaining nodules. SCOOBEE performs the collection step and remains distinct from the NEMO survey AUV and the surface recovery system.