About the ORCAS System
Creator & Vision
ORCAS was created by Maristela Clare Sandoval, a visionary innovator from De La Salle Lipa, Philippines. Her groundbreaking work has earned recognition through the James Dyson Award and multiple international forums.
The Inspiration
The creator was deeply moved by the impact of oil spills in countries like the Philippines and Japan, which have rich marine biodiversity and communities reliant on the sea. Traditional cleanup methods are often slow, wasteful, and risky. This led to the vision of a self-operating robot that could navigate, detect, and clean using safe, natural materials, combining coconut husk and mica with AI for a smarter, safer, and more sustainable solution.
How ORCAS Works
ORCAS employs cutting-edge technology including machine learning and advanced sensor systems to scan and locate oil slicks. The suction mechanism efficiently collects oil, which is then filtered through innovative coconut husk and mica powder layers. A central control system dynamically adjusts operations based on real-time environmental conditions, making ORCAS adaptable to different climates and oil types.
AI Detection
Machine learning algorithms locate oil spills with precision
Natural Filtration
Coconut husk and mica powder provide biodegradable absorption
Adaptive Control
Central system adjusts to conditions in real-time
Recognition & Achievements
ORCAS has achieved remarkable milestones: ₱50K Grant from 3 Minute Research Challenge, presentation at the Wakasa Forum in Japan, National Delegate for DICT Startup Challenge, and finalist status at various international forums. In simulated tests, ORCAS demonstrated the ability to recover over 57% of oil, showcasing its effectiveness in marine cleanup operations.
Future Roadmap
The future roadmap includes open-sea testing in the Philippines and Japan, upgrading navigation algorithms for enhanced efficiency, seeking partnerships with environmental agencies worldwide, and scaling the technology for global deployment to protect our oceans.
Project Creator
Maristela Clare Sandoval
Project Creator & Innovator
Innovator and creator of ORCAS (Oil Recovery Cleanup Automated System), a groundbreaking AI-powered autonomous robot for marine oil spill cleanup. Student at De La Salle Lipa, Philippines.