Conclusion

In this article, we have seen that there is a wide variety of marine and underwater vehicles and associated equipment. Constraints are high (models difficult to characterize, numerous disturbances) and information density (position, perception, communication) is low. Despite these constraints, the steady technological and scientific progress made in marine and underwater robots over the last few decades means that they can be used effectively today. The number of units sold continues to rise, for industrial, scientific and military applications alike. There are more and more vehicles capable of operating at 6,000 m, and the autonomy of AUVs and gliders is constantly increasing. The focus is now on improving 3D environmental modeling and exploration techniques, as well as collaborative work (exploration or manipulation involving several AUVs or ROVs). Some of these flotillas are heterogeneous...