Autonomous Operation of UAVs from USVs

Accurate Automation Corporation (AAC) will address the integral operation of a USV with multiple UAVs. Such a system leverages the advantages of both platforms while compensating for the limitations of each. The USV provides range and endurance, deploying the UAVs across a long distance or after long periods on station. The USV also provides sensor coverage of the underwater environment, of which a UAV has a limited view. The UAVs extend the USV's sight over the horizon and provide additional communications range. AAC has outlined an innovative concept for stowing, launching, recovering, refueling, and then relaunching or restowing, multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) from an Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV). This concept is identified as the Automated Launch and Recovery System (ALaRS) and it is based upon an Autonomous Ball Catch (ABC).