The underwater robots of tomorrow are currently being tested in Southern France (Ifremer La Seyne sur Mer)

Until July 27, the European Centre of Underwater Technologies, a part of Ifremer facilities based at la Seyne-sur-Mer (southern France), is welcoming the European project MORPH.

32 scientists from five countries (Portugal, Germany, Spain, Italy, France) are currently testing together for the first time ten underwater robots (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles as well as Autonomous Surface Vehicles).

These underwater robots love teamwork. Without any physical interconnection, they constantly communicate with each other through acoustic modems and virtual networks. In parallel, they share useful data through sensors.

This new robotic concept will provide efficient methods to map the underwater environment with great accuracy in situations that defy existing technology: namely underwater surveys over rugged terrain and structures with full 3D complexity.

A large number of field applications are expected: harbor protection, monitoring of industrial infrastructures (offshore windpower installations, pipelines ...), sea mine detection, environmental monitoring, exploration of marine resources ...