A survey of underwater search for multi-target using Multi-AUV: Task allocation, path planning, and formation control

There are significant advantages using the autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) for underwater search. Compared with a single AUV, multi-AUV offers greater efficiency and better stability in underwater search. At the same time, the theoretical and technical level of autonomous navigation and cooperative control of multi-AUV formation is the key to the implementation of the underwater search task. The following key factors are worth discussing in the application of multi-AUV in underwater search: task allocation, path planning, and formation control. The purpose of this paper is to grasp the application and development trend of multi-AUV formation in underwater search, so as to summarize the past, present, and future research and development trends of this investigation field in detail.