Hybrid Communication and Localization Underwater Network Nodes based on Magnetic Induction and Visible Light for AUV Support

Network nodes are receiving significant interest in RF-challenging environments. Particularly, in underwater environments it is a current research field with upcoming importance. The use of network nodes promises an extension of the communication range and an improvement of the position estimation for, e.g. autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV). In this short paper, a new approach for hybrid underwater communication nodes based on magnetic induction and visible light is discussed and evaluated. Therefore, a prototype implementation is developed and presented.