Abstract
The Variable Buoyancy System (VBS) is a critical device in the operation of underwater gliders that should be properly sized to achieve the required vehicle propulsion; safety within the operating range; and adequate efficiency at the nominal depth rating. The VBS budget volume depends mainly on the glider hydrodynamics and the main operating states of the vehicle. A method is proposed with analytical equations to analyze the performance of underwater gliders and to estimate the resultant velocities of the vehicle as a function of the buoyancy change and the glider angle. The method is validated to analyze the glider performance of underwater gliders and is essential to get the main design requirement for the propulsion system: the VBS budget volume. The paper presents the application of the method to obtain the VBS sizing for an academic glider; a comparison with the historical hydrodynamic data of the Slocum glider; the results of the glider performance study; and the development of the characteristic charts necessary to evaluate the performance of the vehicle and its flight parameters.
Highlights
Oceanography requires the use of a wide variety of instruments, tools, and platforms to study the planet’s water resources
In the category of Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), underwater gliders are autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) that perform water column sampling for long periods of time and long range transects; gliding in the water at low speed and communicating with the pilot in the surface via satellite to evaluate their performance and to adjust the instructions for the operation cycle [1]
This paper proposes a practical method to analyze the glider performance, including the Variable Buoyancy System (VBS) sizing process as an output resultant of the analysis process
Summary
Oceanography requires the use of a wide variety of instruments, tools, and platforms to study the planet’s water resources. Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), which are piloted with specialized human resources, support and perform special oceanographic operations. In the category of UUV, underwater gliders are autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) that perform water column sampling for long periods of time and long range transects; gliding in the water at low speed and communicating with the pilot in the surface via satellite to evaluate their performance and to adjust the instructions for the operation cycle [1]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
