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About

Josep Forest is a leading researcher in underwater robotics and optical sensing, with a primary focus on advancing active 3D scanning technologies for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). His major contributions center on developing high-precision underwater laser scanners that overcome the challenges of refraction and limited visibility in marine environments. Forest’s work has been instrumental in enabling robotic systems to perform complex tasks such as inspection, maintenance, repair, object recognition, and manipulation beneath the surface—operations critical to reducing human risk and cost in offshore industries. His most-cited paper, “State of the Art of Underwater Active Optical 3D Scanners” (2019, 74 citations), provides a comprehensive review that has become a foundational resource for the field. He also introduced novel scanner designs using biaxial MEMS mirrors and 2-axis mirror systems, achieving fast refresh rates and high accuracy. With over 180 citations across his key works, Forest’s innovations are shaping the next generation of autonomous underwater intervention systems, making him a pivotal figure in marine robotics and sensor technology.