Analysis of New Developments and Key Technologies of Autonomous Underwater Vehicle in Marine Survey

Abstract

The paper illustrates some marine survey AUVs plus their features and typical configurations, and analyzes their key technologies through classification and analysis, which are currently existed or under development. Their composition can be divided into basic modules and functional modules. Basic modules include central processing system, propeller system, power supply system and navigation system etc. Meanwhile, functional modules refer to auxiliary sensor and survey equipment. As for AUV applied in marine survey, designer should pay more consideration to the running state in high velocity flow and strengthen the control of side thrust. The configurations of marine survey AUVs from companies like Kongsberg in Norway, Hydroid in U.S., Bluefin Robotics in U.S. and Hafmynd in Iceland are analyzed and classified. The research and development process of domestic AUV are also be reviewed. As AUV can collect data with highly efficiency and better quality, it will replace traditional means of surface vessels with towed systems for its portability. Easy use of AUV can significantly reduce fuel consumption of ships, which will be widely used in marine survey in the future as a cost-effective method.