Energy Storage and Management

AUV powering and energy management are the deciding factors for UUV mission endurance. This chapter gives an overview of energy sources for AUVs, including batteries, fuel cells, and other alternatives. The typical energy loads encountered during AUV operation form the basis for battery sizing, selection, and operational planning. Power generation and distribution systems used on-board and emerging trends in energy harvesting and underwater recharging technologies are discussed, followed by the trade-offs and design challenges.