Hybrid Propulsion System

About

Despite the benefits of aquatic robotic systems such as autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for underwater exploration, their limited maneuverability and station-keeping performance preclude navigation in tight spaces, operation close to ocean structures, or use on missions where low-speed or station-keeping is required. Researchers at FAU have developed a hybrid propulsion system that integrates a flexible fin with a propeller to produce fast, efficient, and maneuverable AUVs. The vehicle includes sonar and camera equipment for navigation, communications, and surveyance. The new propulsion system enables AUVs to perform advance force control in multiple directions (forward, backward, rapid reverse, upward, forward-lateral, station-keeping) while retaining high-speed performance. This technology has applications in marine industries including offshore energy, defense, and marine research for a range of applications including inspection, maintenance, reconnaissance, security, and research.