Investigating feasibility of target detection by visual servoing using UAV for oceanic applications

This paper proposes image detection and tracking algorithm for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). This algorithm aims to detect moving or still object from a live streaming video using an on board camera on UAV. The algorithm proposed in this paper uses an image based visual servoing (IBVS) based on Viola-jones algorithm and blob analysis. The aim of this research study is to explore the potential of visual servoing techniques using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The UAV robot discussed in this paper is capable of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) from land or deck of the moving ship. This visual feedback via UAV can further be utilized for applications such as surveillance, reconnaissance, communications and exploration.