Efficient Path Planning Algorithms for Unmanned Surface Vehicle

:The C-Enduro Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) is designed to operate at sea for extended periods of time (up to 3 months). To increase the endurance capability of the USV, an energy efficient path planning algorithm is developed. The proposed path planning algorithm integrates the Voronoi diagram, Visibility algorithm, Dijkstra search algorithm and takes also into account the sea current data. Ten USV simulated mission scenarios at different time of day and start/end points were analysed. The proposed approach shows that the amount of energy saved can be up to 21%. Moreover, the proposed algorithm can be used to calculate a collision free and energy efficient path to keep the USV safe and improve the USV capability. The safety distance between the USV and the coastline can also be configured by the user.