Image and video acquisition serve as crucial means for deep-sea ecosystem monitoring and biodiversity assessment. To address limitations of existing towed imaging systems—such as fixed configurations and limited field-of-view—this study proposes an electrically actuated scissor-like extendable imaging mechanism deployed on deep-sea submersibles. The system features a three stages scissor structure that allows real-time adjustment of three-camera spacing and achieves a folding-extension ratio of 11.2:1. First, based on parametric requirements, the physical modelling and mechanical design are completed. Kinematic and dynamic analysis are conducted through geometric modelling and the principle of virtual work. Then, simulation of the displacements, velocities, and driving forces under different conditions is carried out. Finally, a prototype is fabricated with lightweight PEEK material and tested with DC motor actuation. Results confirm the mechanism’s effectiveness and structural stability. This design enhances operational flexibility for large-area, high-efficiency imaging, and supports applications such as 3D reconstruction, habitat mapping, and ecological sampling. It offers a practical solution for precision observation and image-based carbon assessment in deep-sea environments, contributing to ocean carbon neutrality goals.
Yu et al. (Sun,) studied this question.