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Impossible Metals - Robotic Collection System
Impossible Metals has developed an innovative robotic collection system aimed at revolutionizing the process of harvesting polymetallic nodules from deep ocean floors. Initiated in 2020, their engineering architecture witnessed its first patents filed in 2021, marking a significant advancement in marine mineral extraction technology. The system is built around autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) such as Eureka I and Eureka II, which have undergone successful trials in shallow and deep waters. The Eureka series incorporates novel features like a custom robotic arm and an advanced vision system for efficient nodule collection, all aligned with sustainability goals. Impossible Metals aims to enhance the environmental viability of deep-sea mining through first-principles engineering, minimized seabed impact, and adherence to ethical and regulatory standards. This technology is pivotal in addressing the growing demand for critical minerals, essential for various sectors, including technology and renewable energy.
Impossible Metals began work on its engineering architecture in 2020, with first patents filed in 2021. In 2021 we also closed our first funding round, enabling us to begin working on Proof of Concept for our deep sea polymetallic nodule harvesting technology. Our first autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) called Eureka I successfully completed its Proof of Concept trial by selectively harvesting rocks in an underwater environment in December 2022. Our second generation AUV called Eureka II completed its deep-water test in April of 2024.
Nodule Harvesting
Impossible Metals using first principles has invented a new architecture for harvesting of polymetallic nodules for the deep ocean. Key, novel features, of the Impossible Metals approach are:
- Environmentally conscious, leveraging selective harvesting by using AI to avoid disturbing detected life on the nodules and by hovering above the seabed to minimize sediment disturbance.
- No single points of failure with an untethered fleet of Eureka III AUVs each with redundant components.
- The elimination of the need for ship-to-ship transfer of nodules, personale, supplies and fuel.
- Scalable, for large-scale operations and designed to handle millions of tons of minerals annually with a fleet of Eureka III AUVs.
- Significantly less cost as a dedicated production support vessel is not required.