Area-only method for underwater object tracking using autonomous vehicles

The use of autonomous underwater vehicles for ocean research has increased as they have a better cost/performance ratio than crewed oceanographic vessels. For example, autonomous vehicles (e.g. a Wave Glider) can be used to localise and track underwater targets. Whereas other researchers have been focused on target tracking using acoustic modems, here we present a novelty method called area-only target tracking. This method works with commercially available acoustic tags, thereby reducing the costs and complexity over other tracking systems. Moreover, this method can be used to track small targets such as jellyfishes due to the tag's size. The methodology behind the area-only technique is shown, and results from the first field tests conducted in Monterey Bay area are also presented.