BloomOptix, LLC

BloomOptix is an innovative start-up that provides high-resolution, accurate and timely harmful algal bloom (HAB) detection and monitoring. BloomOptix employs a dual unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and submersible remotely operated vehicle (ROV) approach for high-resolution and efficient data collection. The UAS, equipped with multispectral or hyperspectral sensors, and ROV enable image and water quality data collection at any specified location and time-intervals, per client’s needs. Use of unmanned systems assures consistent, reliable collection of water quality data, eliminating the need for boats, travel time, crew and fuel costs. In addition, the use of the ROV’s enables BloomOptix to collect both sediment and water samples up to 200 meters in depth, enabling BloomOptix to study internal phosphorus loading. Collected spectral images and sample analytical data are then employed in an upcoming machine learning model for rapid identification of HABs and efficient data processing. The approach and machine learning models developed by BloomOptix are not limited to HABs and UAS-mounted sensors but will also be applicable to continued advancements in the imagery market. The sensor and drone approaches utilized by BloomOptix can be applied to a wide array of water quality issues including sediment runoff, turbidity and vegetation monitoring. BloomOptix services and expertise are utilized to inform where mitigation measures and ecological engineering projects will be prioritized. Likewise, the flexibility of our upcoming models will allow them to be applied to various sensor types, satellite and UAV-based, and for a variety of data collection methods.