Autonomous oceanographic sampling networks (AOSNs) are groups of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and other instrument platforms that cooperate to carry out oceanographic and other missions. AOSNs were first proposed by Curtin et al. [1993].

AOSNs have a multitude of possible uses, ranging from gathering oceanographic data for global change monitoring to mine-clearing missions to aquaculture to pollution monitoring.

At UMaine, we work on intelligent, cooperative control of AOSNs. Our CoDA Project focuses on protocols and mechanisms for autonomous organization and reorganization of AOSNs.

References

• Curtin, T.b., Bellingham, J.G., Catipovic, J., and Webb, D. (1993). Autonomous oceanographic sampling networks. Oceanography, vol. 3, no., 6.