**Description:** The automation of underwater robotics refers to the use of advanced technologies to control and operate robotic systems in aquatic environments. These systems are designed to perform specific tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously, allowing for the exploration and study of oceans and bodies of water without the need for direct human intervention. Automation in this context involves the integration of sensors, control algorithms, and communication systems that enable underwater robots to navigate, collect data, and perform complex tasks such as inspecting underwater infrastructure, collecting biological samples, and exploring marine ecosystems. The importance of this technology lies in its ability to operate in extreme conditions where human intervention would be dangerous or impractical, and its potential to contribute to scientific research, environmental conservation, and industry, such as the exploration of natural resources. The automation of underwater robotics represents a significant advancement in how we interact with the underwater world, opening new opportunities for research and innovation.
**History:** The automation of underwater robotics began to take shape in the 1950s with the development of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and unmanned submarines. One significant milestone was the use of the ROV ‘Alvin’ in 1964, which enabled exploration of the ocean floor. Over the decades, technology has evolved, incorporating advances in sensors, artificial intelligence, and navigation systems, allowing for greater autonomy and capability of underwater robots.
**Uses:** The automation of underwater robotics is used in various applications, including scientific exploration of the oceans, inspection of underwater infrastructure such as pipelines and communication cables, sample collection for environmental studies, monitoring fish populations in the fishing industry, and conducting search and rescue missions. It is also employed in the exploration of mineral and energy resources on the seabed.
**Examples:** A notable example of underwater robotics automation is the autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) ‘Bluefin-21’, which was used to search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 in 2014. Another example is the ROV ‘Jason’, which has been utilized in multiple expeditions to study seabed ecosystems and conduct inspections of underwater structures.
