Evolution and prospects of underwater robot competition in Japan

This paper deals with the history of Japan´s Underwater Robot Competitions and its future prospects. In Japan, an underwater robot festival was first held in October 2006. At present, such competitions take place twice a year in the Tokyo and Kobe/Kita-Kyushu areas. The AUV division sets various missions such as line-tracking, buoy-touching and designated-area landing. The mission of the Free-style division is presentation of a vehicle´s distinctive performance. The mission of the Junior and Senior High School Students division is gate-passing, treasure-hunting, and pseudo-deep-sea expeditions. The NPO `Japan Underwater Robot Network´ aims to realise regional eliminations and international competitions in the near future.