R&D Projects

Deep Sea ROV R&D

Date. 2023

Location. Sarasota-Manatee counties, Florida, USA, Planet Earth

Fundraise. Long term donations

At Project Sigma, we're embarking on exciting new projects centered around ROVs (Remotely Operated Vessels) and AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vessels) to enhance ocean exploration. These innovative vehicles are key to expanding the capabilities of oceanographic research institutes and increasing our understanding of the ocean's depths.

ROVs, similar in operation to submarines but unmanned and remotely controlled, offer simplicity in design due to the absence of human accommodations. However, they require a tether for remote control since radio waves struggle to transmit through water. AUVs take this a step further by acting independently, following predefined mission plans. We're dedicated to incorporating AI technology to make these vessels even more autonomous, optimizing missions for unexpected opportunities.

As a non-profit organization, our mission is to make these cutting-edge technologies accessible to as many institutes as possible at an affordable cost, thus advancing the capabilities of ocean research and deepening our knowledge of our planet's mysteries. Join us on this journey to explore the unknown depths of our oceans.

Energy systems R&D

At Project Sigma, we've partnered with an external company to curate cutting-edge technologies and create the Off-Grid Energy System (O.GR.E.S). Our aim is to develop a self-sufficient energy system that can offer long-term solutions for various applications.

Our systems range from small-scale units suitable for remote cabins or advanced ranger outposts to larger systems capable of powering essential facilities like schools and hospitals in areas with unreliable grid access, such as remote African villages. These systems have the potential to save lives and foster cultural development, particularly among younger generations in far-flung communities.

We are passionately committed to researching the full spectrum of renewable energy technologies, including wind, solar, hydroelectric, hydrogen, and heat generators. Our goal is to integrate these technologies into a comprehensive system that minimizes energy waste, maximizes production and storage efficiency, and helps build a sustainable, energy-rich future for all. Join us in this journey toward a more self-sufficient and eco-friendly world.

Date. 2024, independent projects

Location. Florida, Worldwide

Fundraise. By project

Z.E.LO.RA.V (Zero Emission LOng RAnge Vessel)

Date. To be Defined

Location. Sarasota-Manatee county, Florida, USA, Planet Earth

Fundraise. Long term donations

One of our most ambitious R&D projects is a groundbreaking evolution of the "Off the Grid" concept, transitioning it from land to sea. Our vision is to design a vessel capable of independent worldwide travel, powered by cutting-edge energy systems that ensure both comfort and safety for the crew.

This project unfolds in stages across a range of vessels, addressing various budgets. We aim not only to accommodate our own financial constraints but also to inspire future pioneers with more accessible goals. While it's relatively simple to design a 100-ft concept catamaran with a multi-million-dollar budget, our mission is to retrofit everyday vessels.

Today, you may come across commercial catamarans fitted with solar panels, priced exorbitantly at over $2 million, or sailboats retrofitted to recharge batteries but still relying on diesel engines when the wind is absent. Our objective is to create a versatile vessel that harnesses multiple energy sources, stores energy efficiently at minimal cost, ensuring continuous travel regardless of conditions. Join us in reshaping the future of sea exploration and travel.

Marine Research Glider

Date. To be Defined

Location. Sarasota-Manatee county, Florida, USA, Planet Earth

Fundraise. Long term donations

A marine glider is a self-sufficient research instrument meticulously crafted to embark on extended ocean missions that can span weeks, months, and even years, depending on its design. Characterized by its torpedo shape, this vessel's efficiency hinges on hydrodynamics.

The core principle is elegantly simple: it propels itself forward using buoyancy and gravity as its "fuel" by altering weight and the center of gravity through ballast control at its nose. The change in pitch and its wings enable controlled movement both vertically and horizontally, allowing it to explore a programmed depth range.

Packed with an array of sensors, data recording systems, and satellite communication capabilities, the marine glider collects environmental data, storing it in its memory until surfacing, where it's transmitted via satellite to research institutes for analysis.

Despite the straightforward concept, marine research gliders are intricate vessels laden with delicate sensors, water-resistant electronics, electric motors, and batteries, all enclosed within a protective shell that shields them from the immense pressure of the deep sea where they collect vital data.

Our mission is to collaborate with marine research institutions to tailor marine gliders to their specific sensor requirements, launching missions that enhance our understanding of our oceans and the world.