Concept and Design of a Prototype Autonomous, Modular Subsea Bottom Station

This paper deals with the introduction of a novel concept of a customisable, modular and autonomous subsea bottom station (BASE). The subsea station will be supported by a floating surface unit ensuring cloud data connection as well as including MEMS-based energy harvesting and spaces for additional sensors. The concept not only serves as a long-term survey station or lander in the classical sense. It shall also operate as the main hub for a future underwater communications network and as a service station for underwater vehicles, such as AUVs, operating in the area. This paper aims to introduce the overall system and to showcase concepts of selected subsystems.