Optimal Design of Combined Propulsion Underwater Glider for Operation of the East Sea of South Korea

Abstract

The Underwater Glider is a type of Autonomous Underwater Vehicle in which propelled by changing the volume. Due to this propulsion method, it is possible to observe about 30 ~ 60 days continuously. This study describes the optimal Underwater Glider design technique for operation in the East Sea of Korea using a combined propulsion system of buoyancy engine and thruster. First, optimization study of volume change of buoyancy engine was carried out through simulation using average flow velocity distribution, water temperature and salinity vertical distribution in the East Sea of South Korea. Second, the simulation shows the result of applying the optimal amount of change in the volume of Underwater Glider. Third, this paper shows the advantages of operation method using thrusters in a special environment where water temperature and salinity distribution and ocean current are unique through simulation.r Glider design technique for operation in the East Sea of Korea using a combined propulsion system of buoyancy engine and thruster. First, optimization study of volume change of buoyancy engine was carried out through simulation using average flow velocity distribution, water temperature and salinity vertical distribution in the East Sea of South Korea. Second, the simulation shows the result of applying the optimal amount of change in the volume of Underwater Glider. Third, this paper shows the advantages of operation method using thrusters in a special environment where water temperature and salinity distribution and ocean current are unique through simulation.