View source for Underwater Robotics

== Introduction ==

Underwater robotics is a branch of [[Robotics|robotics]] that deals with the design and application of robots that operate underwater. These robots, known as [[Autonomous Underwater Vehicle|Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)]] and [[Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle|Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicles (ROVs)]], are used in a variety of applications ranging from scientific research and exploration to commercial and military operations.

[[Image:Detail-53427.jpg|thumb|center|A photo of a torpedo-shaped autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) being lowered into the water.|class=only_on_mobile]]
[[Image:Detail-53428.jpg|thumb|center|A photo of a torpedo-shaped autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) being lowered into the water.|class=only_on_desktop]]

== History ==

The concept of underwater robotics began to take shape in the mid-20th century. The first successful underwater robot was the [[Cable-controlled Underwater Recovery Vehicle|Cable-controlled Underwater Recovery Vehicle (CURV)]], which was developed by the U.S. Navy in the 1960s. This was followed by the development of the first AUV, the [[Special Purpose Underwater Research Vehicle|Special Purpose Underwater Research Vehicle (SPURV)]], in the 1970s.

== Types of Underwater Robots ==

Underwater robots can be broadly classified into two categories: AUVs and ROVs. 

=== Autonomous Underwater Vehicles ===

AUVs are robots that operate independently without any physical connection to a surface vessel. They are equipped with a variety of sensors and instruments to carry out tasks such as mapping the seafloor, collecting data on water temperature and salinity, and inspecting underwater structures.

=== Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicles ===

ROVs, on the other hand, are tethered to a surface vessel and are controlled remotely by an operator. They are typically used for tasks that require a high degree of precision and control, such as underwater construction, salvage operations, and scientific sampling.

== Design and Construction ==

The design and construction of underwater robots is a complex process that involves a number of considerations. These include the robot's intended application, the depth at which it will operate, the type of propulsion system it will use, and the types of sensors and instruments it will carry.

[[Image:Detail-53429.jpg|thumb|center|A photo of a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) with multiple arms and tools attached.|class=only_on_mobile]]
[[Image:Detail-53430.jpg|thumb|center|A photo of a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) with multiple arms and tools attached.|class=only_on_desktop]]

== Applications ==

Underwater robots are used in a wide range of applications. These include:

=== Scientific Research and Exploration ===

Underwater robots are widely used in scientific research and exploration. They are capable of reaching depths that are inaccessible to human divers, allowing scientists to study the deep sea and its inhabitants in unprecedented detail.

=== Commercial Operations ===

In the commercial sector, underwater robots are used for tasks such as inspecting and maintaining underwater pipelines and structures, mapping the seafloor for oil and gas exploration, and salvaging shipwrecks.

=== Military Operations ===

The military uses underwater robots for a variety of tasks, including mine detection and disposal, reconnaissance, and underwater surveillance.

== Future Trends ==

The field of underwater robotics is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and applications emerging on a regular basis. Some of the key trends in the field include the development of more sophisticated sensors and instruments, the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve the autonomy and decision-making capabilities of underwater robots, and the development of swarm robotics, where multiple robots work together to perform tasks.

== See Also ==

* [[Marine technology]]
* [[Oceanography]]
* [[Submersibles]]

[[Category:Robotics]]
[[Category:Marine technology]]
[[Category:Oceanography]]