Underwater Vehicle Networks for Acoustic and Oceanographic Measurements in the Littoral Ocean

Abstract

Recent progress in underwater robotics and acoustic communication has led to the development of a new paradigm in ocean science and technology, the Autonomous Ocean Sampling Network (AOSN). AOSN consists of a network of fixed moorings and/or autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV), tied together by state-of-the-art acoustic communication technology. The GOATS2000 (Generic Oceanographic Array Technology Systems) Joint Research Program is aimed toward the development of environmentally adaptive AOSN technology specifically directed toward Rapid Environmental Assessment in coastal environments. The research program combines theory and modeling of the 3-D environmental acoustics with experiments involving AOSN and sensor technology. To explore the potential of providing a reliable environmental forecasts of the coastal ocean, the observational capabilities are coupled with a nested ocean modeling and assimilation framework, consistently coupling basin scale oceanography with small scale ocean processes. The central element of the the program is a prototype underwater vehicle network managed remotely by a surface platform, including moored sources and arrays, AUVs equipped with a variety of acoustic and environmental sensors, and reliable navigation and communication system.