A networked system architecture including hardware and software elements permits data transmission between underwater systems. The network architecture includes data transmission between underwater computers, instruments, robotic vehicles, human-occupied underwater habitats, and/or worn sensor devices. Data is transmitted over wired communication channels, wireless communication channels, or a combination thereof. The network is established independent of surface connectivity (e.g., a topside connection) and creates a Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) specific to an underwater environment. A system administrator, such as a diver, operates an underwater and waterproof computer to control and operate an underwater and waterproof device (e.g., a robotic vehicle) over the LAN/WAN. The underwater device may be a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), a drifting sensor, a moored sensor, or the like.

A system receives data from a submersible remote operated vehicle (ROV), the data being about the operation of an arm of the ROV. The system automatically controls, based on the data, movement of the arm in docking the arm to a tool holder. In certain instances, the system implements an image based control. In certain instances, the system implements a force accommodation control. In certain instances, the system implements both.

A networked system architecture including hardware and software elements permits data transmission between underwater systems. The network architecture includes data transmission between underwater computers, instruments, robotic vehicles, human-occupied underwater habitats, and/or worn sensor devices. Data is transmitted over wired communication channels, wireless communication channels, or a combination thereof. The network is established independent of surface connectivity (e.g., a topside connection) and creates a Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) specific to an underwater environment. A system administrator, such as a diver, operates an underwater and waterproof computer to control and operate an underwater and waterproof device (e.g., a robotic vehicle) over the LAN/WAN. The underwater device may be a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), a drifting sensor, a moored sensor, or the like.