Objectif
ACME aims at designing robust communication and protocol algorithms, which will be implemented and tested in a prototype of a shallow water acoustic communication network capable of conveying data from several underwater environmental sensors to a central node. Such a fully acoustic communication network, new in Europe, will allow permanent monitoring of sea environment in areas where it is impossible at present (shipping lanes, estuaries). Method: 1-Specification of system mostly by the main end user (plain partner), according to a realistic application (e.g. sediment, pollution or current monitoring) 2-Design of new advanced algorithms and mock-up of a multi-node prototype network based upon modified parts of existing acoustic modems. 3-Intensive and long term tests of the algorithms by operating the prototype under severe conditions.