Advanced Littoral Combat Ship Common Mission Module Handling Device

ATR proposes further development of a Robotic Mission Module Handling System (RMMHS) in the SBIR Phase II to provide a highly adaptable and mobile handling device that is common to both LCS seaframes. The RMMHS consists of a team of robots which work together to handle Mission Modules (MMs). This modular approach takes advantage of the structural strength of the TEU or flat rack to eliminate excess equipment weight while minimizing the deck space taken up by the handling system when not in use. The small size of the RMMHS allows the operator to address and transfer a MM from any deck arrangement with minimal clearance between neighboring modules or ship structure. The intuitive remote control operation of the RMMHS is expected to reduce crew training requirements. The RMMHS is also more cost-effective to operate compared to the existing material handling equipment on both LCS seaframes. A technology demonstration prototype of the RMMHS will be developed and tested in laboratory environments during the SBIR Phase II to achieve TRL 5.