Design and optimization of overall structure for a landing AUV

Abstract

Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) have become main tools for underwater survey in scientific, military, and commercial applications. A significant amount of onboard power is needed to execute long-range missions; however, energy storage is limited in AUV. This paper presents a novel landing AUV that can land on the sea floor to perform long-term monitoring and measuring tasks and save onboard electric energy. The AUV has following characteristics. Firstly, a triangular structure of the AUV which is composed of three cabins is used to achieve stable bottom sitting. Secondly, the releasing mechanism is designed to eject and recover the AUV. Bottom sitting and recovering is verified by ocean trials. This paper provides guidance for design of similar AUVs.