This thesis discusses a new approach to tracking the REMUS 100 AUV using a modified version of the Florida Atlantic University (FAU) ultrashort baseline (USBL) acoustic positioning system (APS). The REMUS 100 is designed to utilize a long baseline (LBL) acoustic positioning system to obtain positioning data in mid-mission. If the placement of one of the transponders of the LBL field is known, then tracking the position of the REMUS 100 AUV using a passive USBL array is possible. As part of the research for this thesis, the FAU USBL system was used to find a relative range between the REMUS 100 ranger and a LBL transponder. This relative range was then combined with direction of arrival information and LBL field component position information to determine an absolute position of the REMUS 100 ranger. The outcome was the demonstration of a passive USBL based tracking system. / by Kyle L. Seaton. / Thesis (M.S.C.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2013. / Includes bibliography. / Mode of access: World Wide Web. / System requirements: Adobe Reader.

Options for tracking dynamic underwater targets using optical methods is currently limited. This thesis examines optical reflectance intensities utilizing Lambert’s Reflection Model and based on a proposed underwater laser tracking system. Numerical analysis is performed through simulation to determine the detectable light intensities based on relationships between varying inputs such as angle of illumination and target position. Attenuation, noise, and laser beam spreading are included in the analysis. Simulation results suggest optical tracking exhibits complex relationships based on target location and illumination angle. Signal to Noise Ratios are a better indicator of system capabilities than received intensities. Signal reception does not necessarily confirm target capture in a multi-sensor network. / Includes bibliography. / Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2014. / FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection