SAUVIM: Researchers are developing an autonomous underwater robot

Researchers have succeeded in developing an autonomous robot for underwater operations. Named SAUVIM (Semi-Autonomous Underwater Vehicle for Intervention Missions), it was developed by the University of Hawaii in collaboration with MASE. The robot performs underwater operations on its own, such as the self calibration of its system to start, then finds and moves objects by arranging itself in the best positions. Sauvim is then able to return to its departure station via its integrated navigation technology. A "Live" section on the Sauvim site shows real-time images filmed by the robot during missions, according to its schedule. Project research is funded by the U.S. Office of Naval Research. More information on the Sauvim site.