Advanced Littoral Combat Ship Common Mission Module Handling Device

The Quantum Engineering Design, Inc. (QED) ‘Mission Module Handling Device’ (MMHD) is designed to meet the Navy’s requirements of minimizing the deck point loading while lifting and omni-directionally maneuvering ISO containers and ‘Twenty foot Equivalent Units’ (TEUs) aboard both the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) ‘Freedom’ and ‘Independence’ class of vessel. Special attention is paid to the need for operating the MMHD within the confines of ship’s decks that have extremely tight overhead and lateral clearances. The design approach reflects the need for minimizing the number of personnel required to safely operate and manage the MMHD including missions where the LCS may be operating in elevated sea state conditions. The MMHD design approach enables ISO containers and flat-rack type TEUs with overhanging payloads to be safely handled at all up weights exceeding the threshold called for in the RFP. The QED - MMHD design reflects the need to minimize the weight and volume of the system for stowage aboard the LCS and the goals to meet the lowest possible life-cycle costs. The Phase I program includes a focused trade study to select the optimum means of powering the MMHD and enabling progressive technology upgrades to enhance the system’s automated capabilities.