On the feasibility of fully wireless remote control for underwater vehicles

In this paper, we explore the possibility of controlling a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) via a fully wireless control channel. As a first step, we review the expected bit rate offered by optical, acoustic as well as radio-frequency underwater communication technologies, as a function of the distance between the transmitter and the receiver. We then discuss the ROV data transfer requirements and discuss which ones can be supported by a given technology at a given distance. Finally, we simulate the performance of the system during missions of interest, and conclude by discussing the effectiveness of wireless control methods for ROVs.