MANEUVER, Integrated Approach for Dynamic Unsteady Situation Control Surface Development

MANEUVER is a focused, applied research effort combines cutting edge biological and engineering techniques to provide a basis for advanced hydrodynamic control surfaces design for unsteady conditions and includes quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the technology as related to Navy Submarines, UUVs, and others. Empirical testing on a free-swimming vehicle is necessary for making solid connections between research and development and actual applicability to platforms. Therefore, Boston Engineering’s world-class team intends to provide a path to feasible Navy technology by “closing the loop” where other efforts have been unable. By combining instrumented control surface concepts, tested in both advanced DPIV and on free swimming vehicles, we can provide research and direction with a high probability of tactical relevance and applicability. The ability to rapidly prototype and test concepts provides the connection between basic research in the area of interest and logistical issues involved in their application such as vehicle control, mounting consideration (loading), maneuver possibilities, vehicle component layout, etc. During the design of new control surfaces etc., the team will develop them as a system and incorporate lessons from fish and marine mammals as is appropriate.