Enhancing Ocean Protection Through Advanced Underwater Technology
Introduction:
Ocean divers are set to benefit from new underwater connected technology that will enhance monitoring and protection efforts in the world’s oceans. With over 70% of the Earth covered by oceans, the potential for exploration and discovery is vast. The Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT) is a network of smart sensors and devices that enable real-time communication in and under the sea. The EU-funded TEUTA project has contributed to the development of lightweight, low-cost acoustic devices and robotic platforms for underwater wireless networks. These advancements in technology are expected to transform sectors such as marine biology, environmental monitoring, construction, and geology.
Full Article: Enhancing Ocean Protection Through Advanced Underwater Technology
Connected Underwater Technology Set to Benefit Ocean Divers
Seals with electronic tags that transmit real-time water data to scientists, or archaeologists instantly alerted when a diver encroaches on a shipwreck – these scenarios are becoming possible with the emergence of underwater connected technologies. These technologies not only aid in monitoring and protecting the world’s oceans but also contribute to uncovering the sea’s remaining mysteries. With approximately 70% of the Earth covered by oceans, the vast majority of which remains unexplored, this new frontier holds great potential.
The Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT), a network of smart interconnected sensors and devices, simplifies communication in the sea. Unlike the Internet of Things (IoT), which encompasses a range of connected devices from smartphones to remote home heating controls, IoUT focuses on underwater communication. The EU-funded TEUTA project, running from October 2020 to March 2022, played a pivotal role in the development and sale of lightweight, low-cost acoustic devices and robotic platforms for underwater wireless networks by H20 Robotics, a Croatian company.
TEUTA’s acoustic technology mimics the communication techniques of whales and dolphins. Acoustic waves, in contrast to radio or optical signals, can travel long distances underwater, regardless of water clarity. At an underwater site, remote sensors, detection systems, and cameras collect data, which is then sent to a buoy on the surface. The buoy transmits the information wirelessly via the cloud to researchers, eliminating the need for communication cables. One of the key applications of this technology is enhancing communication between divers and their land-based colleagues.
Improved underwater communication enables scientific advancements in various sectors such as marine biology, environmental monitoring, construction, and geology. Marine biologists, for instance, gain the ability to activate water-quality measuring devices remotely from their laboratories. Archaeologists can protect vulnerable underwater sites by employing intruder-detection technology in remote locations. TEUTA technology is also set to support the EU-backed project TECTONIC, aimed at improving the documentation and preservation of underwater cultural heritage in specific pilot sites.
Furthermore, the technology opens up possibilities for underwater agriculture, mining, and public agencies or non-governmental organizations monitoring water quality. Researchers can collect and transmit data without needing physical samples, reducing time and costs. While TEUTA has propelled underwater communication technology, marketing efforts and wider adoption are required for its full potential to be realized.
In Italy, researchers are pursuing a novel approach to ocean-data collection through the integration of sensors and samplers into existing observatories and platforms. The EU-funded NAUTILOS project, running until September 2024, aims to generate an extensive amount of data that contributes to the proposed European Digital Twin of the Ocean. This digital replica will combine historical and real-time ocean data, improving understanding of physical, chemical, and biological changes in the oceans.
NAUTILOS technology is being tested in the Baltic and Mediterranean seas, enabling measurements of chlorophyll-A levels, dissolved oxygen levels, and microplastic concentrations. These measurements provide valuable insights into water quality, fish populations, and the impact of human-generated pollution on the oceans. The project includes various types of sensors and samplers, such as remote sensing technologies and microplastics detectors, which can seamlessly integrate with existing and future platforms.
In an unconventional partnership, France’s National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) has equipped seals off the Valdes Peninsula in Argentina with sensors to record data about the animals and their habitats. NAUTILOS encourages citizen science by collaborating with volunteers and scuba-diving associations. Citizen scientists contribute to campaigns focused on ocean plastics and upload photos of underwater flora and fauna via a dedicated smartphone app.
Overall, the advancement of underwater technology holds immense potential for ocean exploration, conservation, and various industries. While significant progress has been made, further marketing and widespread adoption are necessary to fully utilize the capabilities of these innovative technologies.
Summary: Enhancing Ocean Protection Through Advanced Underwater Technology
New underwater connected technologies are revolutionizing the way ocean divers explore and monitor the world’s oceans. The Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT), a network of smart sensors and devices, allows real-time communication and data gathering underwater. This technology has the potential to benefit a range of sectors, including marine biology, environmental monitoring, and archaeology. It can improve underwater communications between divers and land-based colleagues, enable remote control of measuring devices, and help protect vulnerable underwater sites. In addition, advancements in underwater technologies could open up possibilities for underwater agriculture and mining.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Question 1: What is robotics?
Answer: Robotics is a field that encompasses the design, development, and implementation of intelligent machines capable of performing tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously. These machines, known as robots, are typically equipped with sensors, processors, and actuators that enable them to perceive and interact with their environment.
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