Bluefin has developed several autonomous underwater vehicles, most of which have been designed to carry out a range of data acquisition tasks. Some models are equipped to operate at pressures of up to 10,000psi.
In order to collect data efficiently, Bluefin has designed them to be low in both sonic and electronic noise, said Batelle’s National Security division senior vice president Stephen Kelly.
“We were looking for a way to advance Battelle's capabilities in undersea systems development; Bluefin was looking to accelerate its growth in this emerging field,” said Kelly.
"Bluefin's expertise in the development of cutting-edge autonomous vehicle platforms will complement and extend Battelle's capabilities in undersea systems engineering and development of specialised mission payloads.”
Frank van Mierlo, a founder of Bluefin, will remain as chief executive officer, saying that the acquisition enjoys the full support of the Bluefin team.
"We think this is a tremendous opportunity for our people and for both companies. But, more importantly, it's an opportunity for our clients and the general advancement of undersea exploration," said van Mierlo.
For van Mierlo, underwater exploration is one of the most exciting challenges in modern engineering.
"It's an unbelievably difficult and unforgiving environment - with corrosive salt water bearing down at up to 10,000 pounds of pressure per square inch, it is even harsher than space," he said.
Batelle specialises in the commercial development of acquired technologies and laboratory management.
Although Bluefin Robotics has become a wholly owned subsidiary of Batelle, the underwater automation company will retain its current management and continue to operate under the Bluefin Robotics name from its headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The financial details of the acquisition have not been released.
