System Architecture

The composition of a minimal ROV is illustrated below. Subsea payloads can utilize either gateway or serial modules to interface with network or serial communication devices. On the surface, multiple control stations can be linked via a gateway.

For educational or learning-focused DIY projects, it is entirely feasible to construct an ROV using open-source software, commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) electronic speed controllers (ESCs), flight controllers, and a Raspberry Pi.

However, underwater hydrodynamics differ fundamentally from aerial aerodynamics. For a production-grade ROV, specific control parameters and strategies must be adapted and validated for the specific vehicle type. Given the complexity of the underwater environment, the stability and reliability of a specific model depend on sophisticated software algorithms, robust hardware design, and years of field testing.

For most application scenarios, consulting the manufacturer and selecting a stable, reliable standard model—then integrating custom sensors or modifications—is the most efficient and dependable approach. Nevertheless, thoroughly reading the "Key Technologies" section to gain a foundational understanding of the overall system will empower you to build a better ROV.