SBIR-STTR Award

This initiative links relative motion problems between ships and lighters i lots environments during heavy seas to an overall need for an improved cargo handling system. Present methods and hardware represent World War II technology. A modular barge interface system using a computer-controlled, electro-hydraulically actuated, cargo transfer system could safely and reliably handle containerized or breakbulk cargo in conditions above ss3 and possible ss6. Emerging technology would be applied to develop a very intelligent robotic cargo handling system to load/unload ships and to integrate cargo transfer with lighterage seaway motion. The system would be modular for deployment. The principal investigator has assembled a team that understands the army's problem and can design and fabricate advanced systems hardware for development, test, and production. The team draws engineering experience from this nation's most advanced R&D programs, such as fusion reactor development underway at Princeton and robotics/artificial intelligence for major industry leaders. Other selected experience includes almost 30 years in amphibious operations and almost 10 years in development and manufacture of motion simulators. The team can take this advanced concept from inception through to final configuration as an all-weather army capability.

Phase I defined a concept for offshore cargo transfer between containerships and lighters at sea state 3 conditions or higher. The system is called the automated all-weather cargo transfer system (AACTS). Under phase ii, the development of proof-of-concept scale models of aacts components is proposed. The components selected are the most innovative and hold the most promise for broad near-term military and commercial application. These are described below. The cargo manipulator arm is a scaled up version of an industrial robot and is used to transfer ship's cargo. This eliminates problems such as pendulation. The iso compatible intelligent spreader bar consists of sensor and motion control systems. It enable rapid and automated acquisition of cargo. A brething module is a surface with the capability of moving in synchronism with a craft to impact controlled forces which constrain the movement of the craft. A linear array of modules can provide a "soft" docking surface and can also be used to warp and rapidly cast off a vessel. The craft interlock interface enables the brething module to attach firmly to the craft. This is necessary in order to exert limited control over the craft motion.