CORALS:
Coral Oceanic Restoration Autonomous Lander Submersible
CORALS is an autonomous submersible that reduces chemical pollution by using biodegradable alkaline beads to mitigate oxybenzone (harmful chemical found in sunscreen) and boosts reef recovery with acoustic enrichment. It utilizes multi-sensor navigation and real-time reef vitals.
Phase 1: Design
Features
Biodegradable alkaline beads: absorb oxybenzone and gently buffer local acidity; targeted, closed-loop deploy & retrieval
Acoustic enrichment: playback of healthy reef audio to attract fish, boost coral settlement, and rebuild biodiversity
Designed in AutoCAD (modular chassis, serviceable bays) and programmed in C++ for autonomous navigation
USPTO Provisional Application filed
First Author of Patent Application
Coordinated with a patent attorney to refine the specification and file the USPTO provisional
Phase 2: Solo Project: Prototyping
Engineering Process
Built and bench-tested an Arduino-based prototype with C++ autonomy (navigation, dosing, logging)
Integrated LiDAR, pH, and ultrasonic distance sensors, D3 motors, angled propellors, LCD displays, joystick
In simulated reef conditions, demonstrated consistent bead deployment and pollutant absorption
