Challenges associated with the design of a small unmanned autonomous maritime vehicle

The present paper begins with a presentation of an interdisciplinary research project, the method is then introduced, followed by a brief description of the unmanned autonomous maritime vehicle. The following chapter concerns a combined model describing the motion of the vehicle, including the hydrodynamic and aerodynamic forces. The model takes into account gravity, displacement, resistance, thrust, lift, and other hydrodynamic forces. The primary task of an advanced maritime vehicle is to precisely predict its position. To do so, an integrated model for the acquisition, analysis, and processing of the signals is necessary. The processed signals should then be used for the precise steering of the vehicle. The vehicle should be equipped with a stabilization system. Information on the integrated steering, positioning, and stabilization system of the vehicle is briefly presented in the paper. Such system enables to obtain a fully autonomous vehicle. Some information on the propulsion and underwater energy supply systems is also briefly presented. In the final part of the paper, some of the issues connected with vehicle safety are introduced.