Planning Observations by Unmanned Surface Vessels

Operations of multiple autonomous agents are scheduled and coordinated automatically.

Three algorithms, and software that implements the algorithms, have been conceived and analyzed as means of effecting automated planning of scientific observations by a fleet of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) equipped with sensors and operating over a large and possibly changing ocean area. Typical observations envisioned in the development of these algorithms include water-temperature measurements ahead of the path of a hurricane (see figure) and fluorometer readings to track harmful algal blooms.