6391 Collaborative Autonomous Sensing of Current Across the Depth Extent

Our oceans are vast and mysterious, holding the key to understanding everything from climate change to marine ecosystems. To better explore these depths, this project brings together cutting-edge technologies to create a smarter, more efficient way of studying the ocean. The heart of this project lies in the use of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs). AUVs are robotic submarines that can travel deep underwater, following pre-set paths without needing constant communication. USVs, on the other hand, are boats that operate on the water’s surface, equipped with highly accurate GPS systems. These two types of vehicles will be equipped with the Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP)—a tool that measures water currents using sound waves to track the movement of water in real-time. By teaming up these technologies, the project will create a new method for both navigating underwater and collecting data. The USVs will provide data from the surface, while the AUVs will gather crucial information from deeper waters. This combined approach means that scientists can now get a clearer picture of what’s happening across the entire water column—from the surface to the ocean floor. The project will include a small, advanced underwater robot (micro-AUV) equipped with a special sensor that combines the ability to measure both water currents and speed. This will make it more adaptable to different research needs. By coordinating the AUV and USV, researchers will be able to measure water conditions at all depths, from shallow coastal areas to the deep sea. This system will work both remotely and autonomously, providing more efficient and accurate data. This groundbreaking project will help scientists better understand ocean currents, which are vital for studying everything from marine life to climate change.

This project aims to enhance oceanographic data collection and underwater navigation by integrating Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), both equipped with Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) systems. The goal is to introduce a novel method for data collection and navigation from shallow to deep waters. The project will work with three key technologies: * Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs): Autonomous robots that operate in water with minimal communication during deployment, following a pre-programmed trajectory. * Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP): A tool that measures water currents using the Doppler effect, providing key data on water movement. * Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs): Surface vessels with precise positioning systems, ideal for nearshore and confined environments. This project will combine AUVs, USVs, and ADCPs into an integrated system with intelligent software, enhancing navigation accuracy and enabling data collection across all depths. By leveraging real-time data sharing, it aims to improve navigation and expand oceanographic measurement capabilities. Key Outcomes will consists of: 1. Micro-AUV with Hybrid ADCP-Doppler Velocity Log (DVL): A compact AUV combining ADCP and DVL technologies for flexible data collection. 2. Multi-Vehicle Operational Concept: A coordinated system where AUVs and USVs work together to measure the full water column, from surface to seabed, using autonomous and remotely operated systems. This project will significantly improve underwater navigation and ocean data collection, offering deeper insights into ocean dynamics.