Automated Launch and Recovery of Small, Untethered Unmanned Underwater Vehicles from Unmanned Surface Vehicles

As a follow-on effort to a phase I STTR, a program is proposed for the detail design, fabrication, integration, and in-water demonstration testing of an automated Launch, Recovery, On-board Handling, and Servicing System (LROHSS) for hosting Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) aboard Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs). In the base phase of the program, the design concept shall be carried forward into sufficient detail to support fabrication and purchasing of necessary components. The mechanical components of the design will be assembled and electrical and hydraulic power distribution networks integrated. Integration of control system including controller and sensors will follow. Those aspects of the fully integrated system that can be tested will be verified in the laboratory. The LROHSS will then be transferred from the laboratory to a host vehicle for in water development testing with a free swimming UUV complete with automated homing and docking capability. The program will culminate in an in-water demonstration of launch and recovery of the UUV.