Characterization of optical communication in a leader-follower unmanned underwater vehicle formation

TitleCharacterization of optical communication in a leader-follower unmanned underwater vehicle formation
Publication TypeConference Proceedings
Year2013
AuthorsEren, F, Pe'eri, S, Thein, M-W
Conference NameSPIE Defense, Security and Sensing (Ocean remote sensing and monitoring V )
Volume8724
Conference DatesApril 29 - May 3
PublisherSPIE
Conference LocationBaltimore, MD, USA
Keywordslight attenuation, optical communication, simulation, Unmanned underwater vehicle, water clarity

As part of theresearchto development an optical communication design of a leader-follower formation between unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), this paper presents light field characterization and design configuration of the hardware required to allow the use of distance detection between UUVs. The studyspecifically is targeting communication between remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). As an initial step in this study, the light field produced from a light source mounted on the leader UUV was empirically characterized and modeled. Based on the light field measurements, a photo-detector array for the follower UUV was designed. Evaluation of the communication algorithms to monitor the UUV’s motion was conducted through underwater experiments in the Ocean Engineering Laboratory at the University of New Hampshire. The optimal spectral range was determined based on the calculation of the diffuse attenuation coefficients by using two different light sources and a spectrometer. The range between the leader and the follower vehicles for a specific water type was determined. In addition, the array design and the communication algorithms were modified according to the results from the light field.