Major Research Feasibility study on the automation and remote operation of underwater robots utilizing 2D codes

In this study, which aims to enable the automatic operation of underwater robots using 2D codes, we examined a simple method of providing operating instructions to underwater robots using QR and other 2D codes. To achieve this objective, we developed an application software program. This software could recognize instructions from the 2D code and control an underwater drone accordingly. In addition, we selected a low-cost and high-speed telecommunication capability camera, for which we fabricated a custom-made waterproof case and installed it on the drone.  We then attached 2D code panels to a pier model located inside a water tank on PARI's premises and conducted a demonstration experiment under a 0.2 m wave height condition. In the experiment, we observed the automatic drone operation by 2D code instructions and identified any potential issues that might arise. The experiment indicated that the underwater drone could recognize the attached 2D code instructions, automatically move to any specified position, and keep the position even amid the waves. We could also identify several issues, for example, the frequency of the 2D code recognition.