Real-time underwater wireless optical communication and positioning an integrated system based on angular diversity...

Area of Science:

• Robotics and Autonomous Systems
• Optical Communication
• Underwater Navigation

Background:

• Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) require integrated communication and positioning for docking and formation.
• Traditional systems are often independent, leading to redundancy and integration challenges.
• A unified solution is needed to enhance AUV operational efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a real-time integrated underwater wireless optical communication and positioning (UWOCP) system.
• To overcome the limitations of separate communication and positioning methods for AUVs.
• To achieve long-distance, high-bandwidth, and accurate positioning in underwater environments.

Main Methods:

• An LED array as a light source utilizing pulse-position modulation (PPM) for extended range.
• A silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) array with five angled SiPMs for high sensitivity and angular discrimination.
• Calculating pitch and yaw angles based on the intensity of received pulse signals across the SiPM array.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated a real-time UWOCP system with an Ethernet bandwidth of 2.2 Mbps.
• Achieved an average angular error of 3.08° for one-dimensional positioning.
• Successfully operated the system at a distance of 50 meters, marking a record for real-time UWOCP.

Conclusions:

• The developed UWOCP system offers a high-sensitivity, computationally efficient, and compact solution.
• This integrated approach significantly enhances AUV capabilities for underwater applications.
• The system presents a promising advancement for future underwater communication and navigation.