Smart Materials and Adaptive and Novel Technologies Applied to Unmanned Underwater Riverine Craft (MANTA-UURC)

Our basic concept consists of a bio-mimetic manta ray like autonomous underwater vehicle which incorporates SMA actuated mechanical structure surrounded by compliant skins to duplicate the efficient and silent movement of a manta ray for use in shallow, riverine, or sensitive marine environments. Several beneficial features of the concept include: stealthy operation through low / zero noise actuation / propulsion, low-obserability through resemblance of a marine animal, and ability to carry relatively large payloads. At the end of Phase I, the following will be completed: (1) definition of optimal propulsive movement through CFD and analytical modeling of the flexible manta drive structure design, (2) simulation of the SMA actuation system, vehicle structure, and control systems, (3) a proof-of-concept laboratory underwater test of an actuated segment of the Phase II vehicle wing, (4) preliminary design of the proposed Phase II demonstration vehicle, and (5) roadmaps established for vehicle scaling and technology transition. Phase II will focus on the fabrication and testing of the proposed demonstration craft in an operational environment.