A manipulator wrist joint is a specialized component of a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that allows the manipulator arm to move and rotate in multiple directions. The manipulator arm is a key feature of ROVs, as it allows them to interact with their underwater environment and perform tasks such as inspection, maintenance, repair, and construction work. The manipulator wrist joint is located at the end of the manipulator arm and is responsible for providing a range of movement and rotation, allowing the arm to reach and manipulate objects in various positions and orientations.

Manipulator wrist joints can be designed in a variety of ways, depending on the specific requirements of the ROV and the tasks it is intended to perform. Some wrist joints may be simple and allow for only a limited range of movement, while others may be more complex and provide a wider range of motion and greater precision. The design of the manipulator wrist joint is also influenced by factors such as the size and weight of the ROV, the thickness and composition of the materials it will be working with, and the operating depth and conditions of the underwater environment.

One common design for a manipulator wrist joint is a ball-and-socket joint, which allows for a wide range of movement and rotation. This type of joint consists of a ball at the end of the manipulator arm that fits into a socket at the base of the wrist joint. The ball can rotate within the socket, allowing the arm to move in any direction. Other types of manipulator wrist joints may use hinge joints or gear-and-linkage systems to provide movement and rotation.

Manipulator wrist joints can also be equipped with various sensors and control systems to help the ROV accurately position and manipulate objects. These may include encoders, force sensors, and motion sensors, which provide feedback on the position and movement of the manipulator arm. This information can be used to fine-tune the movement of the arm and ensure that it is accurately positioned and aligned with the object being manipulated.