Advanced Automation Techniques

Increase Efficiency and Transform Coral Restoration with Cutting-Edge Technology
Robotic Precision for Coral Care

The Gantry - Precision Meets Automation

The gantry is an advanced robotic system integral to SeaFoundry's automation efforts, designed to revolutionize coral care and research in ex-situ facilities. It consists of a robotic arm mounted on a 3-axis frame, which allows precise movement across tanks housing corals. This system automates critical tasks in coral husbandry and data collection, reducing manual labor and improving consistency.
Key features:
1. Automated Imaging and Analysis:
Captures high-resolution images of corals to monitor growth, size, and health over time and integrates advanced algorithms for detecting anomalies, such as stress or disease and other.
The system is equipped to support both multispectral and hyperspectral imaging technologies, enabling detailed analysis of physiological changes within coral tissues. These advanced imaging techniques provide crucial insights by capturing a wide range of light wavelengths, allowing researchers to detect subtle stress responses, monitor metabolic activity, and identify early signs of bleaching or disease with unparalleled precision.

Side by side of the same rack of corals, thanks to the imaging capabilities of the gantry we can observe the coloration of each piece of coral, making it easier to differentiate and asses its condition.

2. Robotic Precision:
The gantry executes repetitive tasks like feeding, cleaning, or applying treatments with minimal human intervention, reducing the risk of errors and ensures uniform care across all tanks.
3. Integrated Monitoring:
Synchronizes with life support systems to track environmental parameters like temperature and pH in real time. Provides Actionable data for optimizing coral growth and resilience.
What are the applications of this technology in coral restoration?
The gantry represents a leap forward in coral restoration, combining precision robotics with data-driven insights to streamline operations and support large-scale conservation efforts. On the website, it is highlighted under the "Advanced Automation Techniques" page to showcase its role in advancing the science and scalability of coral reef restoration.
Handheld Imaging tool - Portable Precision
•  Multispectral Imaging: Detect stress, bleaching, and metabolic changes with advanced light analysis.

•  Compact and Portable: Can be used with your phone camera.

•  Seamless Data Integration: Syncs with SeaFoundry’s inventory tools for easy tracking and analysis.

So what's next?

Inside of the F.O.R.G.E system container

F.O.R.G.E system

This is the next step for revolutionizing corals restoration

At SeaFoundry, we’re revolutionizing coral restoration with F.O.R.G.E. (Flexible Oceanic Research and Genetics Environment)—a cutting-edge system combining precision, automation, and scalability. This groundbreaking platform accelerates research and restoration efforts, empowering practitioners with the tools they need to address coral reef decline.

F.O.R.G.E. is a modular, portable research system designed to:
  • Simulate and control environmental conditions like temperature, salinity, and light across multiple aquaria.
  • Automate imaging and data collection to monitor coral growth and stress responses in real time.
  • Provide a centralized database for tracking genetic performance, environmental conditions, and restoration outcomes.

Key features:

  1. Centralized Environmental Control:
    • Programmatic variation of water quality parameters across tanks.

    • Independent control of temperature, salinity, and light for targeted experiments.
  2. Automated Imaging:

    • Advanced cameras and algorithms track coral growth, detect stress, and measure resilience.

    • Enables non-invasive monitoring to optimize restoration strategies.
  3. Portable, Scalable Design:

    • Self-contained units for easy global deployment.

    • Supports both short-term experiments (6-18 months) and long-term restoration facility setups.
  4. Integrated Data Hub:

    • Seamlessly connects with SeaFoundry’s inventory tools for in-depth genetic and environmental analysis.

    • Facilitates collaboration and the development of standardized restoration protocols.
Applications
Stress Testing: Simulate thermal stress and acidification to identify heat- and disease-resistant corals.    

Selective Breeding: Optimize propagation techniques by refining genetic strategies.  
Environmental Optimization: Determine ideal water quality conditions for different coral species.

Impact

F.O.R.G.E. empowers researchers and practitioners to refine restoration efforts with precision and scalability, bridging the gap between laboratory experiments and real-world reef recovery. By advancing coral science and fostering global collaboration, it supports a brighter future for our oceans..

Coral growing in optimal conditions.