Author(s)

S. Knepper, M. Niemeyer, R. Galletti, A. Brighenti, A. Bjerrum and N. Andersen

Abstract

EURODOCKER - a universal docking - downloading - recharging system for AUVs S. Knepper*, M. Niemeyer\ R. Gallettr, A. Brighenti^, A. Bjerrum\ N. Andersen^ ^Institute of Materials Science, University of Hannover, Germany. "Systems & Advanced Technologies Engineering, Venice, Italy. ~Maridan AS, Horsholm, Denmark. ^Technical University of Denmark, Department of Automation, Denmark. Abstract The EURODOCKER project has the objective of developing an unmanned support system for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), to permit docking, data downloading and battery recharging activities to be carried out underwater. This system shall overcome two of the principal current restrictions to the use of AUVs, tied to their limited independence from expensive surface support, and the risks of loss or damage inherent to continuous surface launch and recovery operations. The solution developed entails a submerged docking station for AUVs. that may be deployed either as part of an unmanned

Keywords