The startup has developed a fully autonomous net cleaning system that inspects and cleans fish-farming nets without requiring supervision or additional infrastructure. This technology enhances animal welfare and lowers operational costs for fish-farming businesses by ensuring nets remain free of debris and biofouling.
Funding
$330K raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Biofouling on fish farm nets restricts water flow, reduces oxygen levels, and increases the risk of disease for farmed fish. Traditional net cleaning methods, such as high-pressure washing, are labor-intensive, can damage the nets, and may negatively impact fish health. The need for frequent cleaning also disrupts operations and increases costs for aquaculture businesses.
Solution
Probotic offers an autonomous underwater drone system for proactive and gentle net cleaning and inspection in aquaculture. The PROBOT drone resides in the fish pen, continuously removing biofouling with a vacuum suction system, eliminating the need for high-pressure washing or manual scrubbing. The system includes a topside unit for power and data transfer, and a docking station for drone storage and maintenance. Real-time monitoring and remote control capabilities enable operators to oversee the cleaning process and conduct detailed net inspections without the need for boat visits, improving biosafety and reducing the risk of escapes.
Target Audience
The primary customers are aquaculture farms seeking to improve fish health, reduce operational costs associated with net cleaning, and enhance biosecurity.
Features
- Autonomous underwater drone for continuous net cleaning
- Gentle vacuum suction technology to remove biofouling without damaging nets or harming fish
- Integrated inspection camera for remote net monitoring and damage detection
- Topside unit for power and data connectivity, equipped with indicator lights and emergency stop
- Docking station for drone storage and protection during harsh weather
- Real-time monitoring and remote-control capabilities via a remote control center
- Automated reporting with images and video documentation of net conditions
- AI-powered hole detection to prevent fish escapes