Design and Application of an Autonomous Surface Vehicle with an AI-Based Sensing Capability

Unmanned autonomous vehicles have been used for military, shipping, transportation, and scientific research applications for decades. Following the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, autonomous vehicles now possess increased potential for sensing applications. AI-based sensing technologies not only reduce the complication of the data process, but also provide real time sensing results. This study demonstrates the design and applications of an ASV with an AI-based sensor. The functions of the proposed ASV include autonomous sailing, remote communications, smart 3D mapping, and real-time image detection and identification. In addition, the ASV also can sail in dangerous or shallow waters. The experimental results presented herein verify the performances of the proposed functions. The open module design of the ASV can lead to further developments of AI-based sensing applications.