Automatic analysis of visual data in submarine pipeline inspection

An automatic system for analysis and interpretation of visual data from submarine pipeline inspection operates using images collected by cameras mounted on an unmanned Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) that moves along the pipeline. The system supports the operator in navigating the ROV and in detecting structural elements of the pipeline such as anodes, gravel heaps and reference bands. The system employs a feature based technique for recognizing the pipeline's profile and for detecting the structural elements. Information gathered by analyzing and interpreting the visual data can be used for automatic guidance and inspection by integrating the system into a larger architecture.