Accurate Shot Line Deployment with a Stabilized Rifle Platform (STRIP)

TGV proposes to design a stabilized platform for shot line deployment that provides an accurate and reliable way of deploying a shot line between two ships for underway replenishment (UNREP) operations. This stabilization platform will clamp or hold the current shot deployment rifle system and provide stabilization and aiming coordination in rough seas up to Sea State 5. This allows the use of the current well-understood shot line deployment rifle system while increasing its accuracy and success probability, with the option of using the current rifle system without the platform in applicable conditions. The platform can be used fully automated or as a stable firing base for the user. Finally, the platform avoids introducing complex additional systems or operational modalities that require extensive training or maintenance.ÝUnlike a gyro-stabilized rifle that just steadies a rifle under optimal conditions, the STRIP Stabilized Rifle Platform uses a sophisticated aerospace-grade Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and high-torque motors to stabilize the rifle and platform. STRIP provides a level of mobility control and tracking that is far beyond the capability of a gyrostabilized platform, providing not just a limited steadiness but significant 3-axis motion control.ÝTGV will do this by sourcing existing COTS stabilization platform and control system, or appropriate control parts and technology, and designing a control system around this platform that is compatible with the types of weather encountered at sea. TGV brings the teamís experience in aerospace technology design and development to create a platform that is capable of this level of high-end performance.ÝThe TGV team will create a design for Phase I and source components and equipment for the design. In the Phase I Option, the team will continue to refine system response and performance and build a single-axis motion control to demonstrate the feasibility of the design.The stabilized platform will also stabilize other equipment of a similar size and weight, including portable search lights, laser communications systems, and visual and optical systems