Development of Toroidal Propellers for Torpedo and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV) Applications

Beacon Industries proposes an innovative toroidal propeller technology to enhance the performance of the U.S. Navyís MK54 Lightweight Torpedo (LWT). This advanced design delivers significant improvements in speed, fuel efficiency, and acoustic stealth while addressing limitations of the current counter-rotating propeller systems. The proposed solution achieves a 10% boost in speed and fuel efficiency, reduces cavitation for a lower acoustic signature, and enhances structural stiffness to withstand high-shock and vibration environments.The toroidal propeller seamlessly integrates with existing torpedo systems, requiring no modifications to the platform, and extends its applicability to Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs), Submarine Launched UUVs (SLUUVs), and future torpedo variants. By leveraging state-of-the-art materials and manufacturing methods, the design reduces production costs while ensuring superior performance, durability, and stealth.Beaconís proposed technology overcomes key challenges such as cavitation-induced noise, limited performance scalability, and high manufacturing expenses. The closed-loop blade configuration optimizes hydrodynamic performance, addressing critical operational requirements for anti-submarine warfare. Computational simulations and rigorous testing will validate the design, aligning with the Navyís goals for enhanced maritime capability and mission success in high-threat, multi-domain environments.