Robust ROV path following considering disturbance and measurement error using data fusion

•Model free ISMC maintains zero tracking error in spite of uncertainties.•Bias in IMU makes path following unstable.•The IMU bias is filtered using aided sensors and data fusion for accurate path following.

ROV accurate path following is challenging due to system unmodeled dynamics, disturbances and navigation sensors error. The model uncertainty and disturbances are commonly treated using robust methods such as the sliding mode controller where by incorporating an integral action in the zero tracking error is also guaranteed. Practically, the ROV position data is often computed using low cost inertial measurement unit (IMU) with outputs contaminated with bias and noise. Failure of mission is an immediate consequence of employing such biased sensors. However, the problem can be circumvented using the concept of redundant measurements and data fusion. In this respect, a set of 12 measurements from IMU, magnetometer and Doppler velocity log (DVL) are employed where the last two are aided sensors. The set up is shown to be capable of providing ROV path following with zero (in average) steady state tracking error irrespective of its dynamic parameters, environmental disturbances and erroneous data; as if it enjoys the exact values of the position of the ROV. It means that the combined DVL and magnetometer are sufficient for filtering the IMU biased measurements. Various simulations conducted confirm the results.