The Call to the Deep

Unema’s path diverged from the conventional trajectory of an electrical engineer when Harlan Kredit, a nationally recognized science educator and board member of the Global Foundation for Ocean Exploration (GFOE), reached out. Kredit sought an engineer to contribute to the design, construction, and operation of ROVs for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This opportunity presented a stark contrast to Unema’s recent work on automotive assembly lines at Gentex Corp., but the allure of uncharted territories proved irresistible.

Early Influences and Education

Born and raised in Lynden, Washington, Unema’s fascination with how things work began in childhood. Disassembling radios, modifying electronics, and constructing makeshift chargers were early indicators of his innate engineering aptitude. Coupled with a love for the outdoors fostered through Boy Scouts – hiking, camping, and snowboarding – Unema developed a unique blend of technical curiosity and environmental appreciation. His parents, a civil engineer father and a high school biology teacher mother, further nurtured these interests.

Unema pursued a Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering at Michigan Technological University, following in his father’s footsteps. A summer internship at ArcelorMittal exposed him to the intricacies of factory automation, while his role at Gentex Corp. honed his skills in manufacturing systems and industrial robotics. However, it was Kredit’s call that ultimately set him on his current course.

The Challenges of Deep-Sea Robotics

Building technology capable of withstanding the immense pressure of the deep ocean presents formidable engineering challenges. Unema explains the constant trade-offs between weight, size, and cost. Every component must be meticulously waterproofed, and sensitive electronics require isolation to prevent short circuits. While some parts can tolerate the pressure, most are housed in robust titanium flasks, demanding miniaturization to minimize overall vehicle mass.

Communication is another significant hurdle. ROVs rely on kilometers-long cables containing only a handful of optical fibers to transmit data. As instruments become more sophisticated and data demands increase, efficient data transmission becomes increasingly critical. Unema’s work focuses on ROVs designed for scientific research, which prioritize precise control and extensive instrumentation over the raw power of vehicles used in the oil and gas industry.

Deep Exploration Solutions: A New Chapter

When the GFOE’s contract with NOAA concluded in July, Unema and four former colleagues seized the opportunity to establish Deep Exploration Solutions. This consultancy allows them to continue their passion for deep-sea exploration, providing ROV maintenance, design, and piloting services. They’ve already secured a contract for winter maintenance on NOAA’s ROVs, Deep Discoverer and Seirios, which operate from the research vessel Okeanos Explorer, and are actively seeking new projects.

Unema has also contributed to projects with the Schmidt Ocean Institute and the Ocean Exploration Trust, demonstrating the breadth of his experience and the demand for specialized ROV expertise. What drives this dedication to the unknown? “I love the exploration and just seeing new things every day,” Unema says. “And the engineering challenges that go along with it are really exciting, because there’s a lot of pressure down there and a lot of technical problems to solve.”

Life Aboard a Research Vessel

On expeditions, Unema’s role centers on piloting the ROV, following instructions from a science team analyzing the video feed. He operates hydraulic arms to collect samples of intriguing discoveries – corals, sponges, and previously unknown deep-sea creatures. These missions aim to map species distribution and uncover new life forms in the vast, unexplored regions of the ocean floor.

Life at sea isn’t without its challenges. Unema acknowledges the potential for seasickness and the close quarters of ship life, but emphasizes the camaraderie and shared enthusiasm among the crew. “It’s like when you go to scout camp or summer camp,” he says. “You’re all meeting new people. Everyone’s really excited to be there. We don’t know what we’re going to find.”

The unpredictable nature of deep-sea expeditions demands resourcefulness and problem-solving skills. With limited resources available in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, engineers must be prepared to repair and adapt equipment on the fly. Do you think the challenges of deep-sea robotics will inspire new innovations in other fields of engineering? What role will artificial intelligence play in future underwater exploration?

Frequently Asked Questions About ROV Engineering