Emerging from Academic Excellence

Founded in 2024, Tethys Robotics emerged from the prestigious ETH Zurich ecosystem, established by a team of robotics experts including CEO Jonas Wüst (Robotics Master’s graduate and former ETH researcher), CTO Pragash Sivananthaguru (Biomedical Engineering specialist), and COO Johannes Lienhart (Robotics Master’s alumnus). This spin-off focuses exclusively on developing cutting-edge underwater inspection robotics.

Addressing Critical Industry Challenges

Traditional underwater operations face formidable obstacles—hiring divers exposes personnel to life-threatening risks including decompression sickness, drowning, and extreme physiological stress. Meanwhile, conventional semi-autonomous underwater vehicles struggle in low-visibility environments and lack reliable positioning capabilities without GPS signals. The market opportunity is substantial, with the global underwater inspection and search & rescue sectors projected to exceed $8 billion in annual growth, and the seabed inspection market alone valuing over €5 billion annually.

Acoustic Precision in Challenging Waters

Tethys Robotics has pioneered the world’s first autonomous underwater inspection robot capable of operating in high-intensity currents. Their breakthrough solution utilizes advanced acoustic detection technology to navigate turbid waters where traditional ROVs and divers face insurmountable challenges. The system employs a sophisticated sensor array including Doppler Velocity Log (DVL), side-scan, and forward-looking sonar to achieve what was previously impossible in near-zero visibility conditions.

Advanced Technological Capabilities

The Tethys underwater robotic system delivers unparalleled performance:

  • ••360-degree Environmental Awareness: Proprietary algorithms process acoustic sensor data to provide complete terrain mapping and precise navigation
  • ••High-Current Operation: 360º motion control enables stable inspections in currents reaching 3.5 knots
  • ••Dual Operational Modes: Seamless transition between Remotely Operated (ROV) and Fully Autonomous (AUV) functionality
  • ••Compact Design: Weighing just 35kg with 4-hour runtime and 2km range, deployable in depths up to 300 meters within 10 minutes

Modular Inspection Solutions

The system’s innovative design features:

  • ••Payload Flexibility: Modular integration of HD cameras, metal detectors, and manipulator arms
  • ••Enhanced Data Collection: Real-time 3D mapping enhanced with environmental data (metal detection, current analysis, pressure, temperature, oxygen levels, structural thickness, and Non-Destructive Testing)
  • ••Precision Interaction: Gripper system matching diver lifting capacity for safe equipment interaction

Market Expansion Strategy

Targeting critical infrastructure maintenance, Tethys Robotics has already partnered with archaeologists, hydropower operators, and public authorities for bridge pier inspections. Future applications extend to offshore wind farms, oil and gas platforms, and various underwater environments requiring reliable inspection solutions.

Strategic Funding Milestone

In September 2023, Tethys Robotics secured 150,000 Swiss Francs from Venture Kick to accelerate customer pilot projects and expand international market demonstrations, positioning the company for global impact in underwater robotics innovation.