SBIR-STTR Award

One of the missions of the MK VI Patrol Boat is the launch and recovery (L&R) of various unmanned vehicles (UVs). With current L&R systems, operations are difficult and cumbersome in calm conditions, and beyond Sea State 1 (SS-1) the launch of a combat rubber raiding craft (CRRC) is required which further increases risk. Additionally, current L&R systems are not adaptable to multiple UV platforms. Navatek proposes to develop a tethered Capture and Deploy Device using Inflatable Elements (CADDIE) system that combines ultra-lightweight inflatable elements with an aluminum frame and a simple remotely operated thruster (ROT). The UUV CADDIE uses proven ultra-lightweight inflatables for soft UUV capture at a low stowed space/weight, and a COTS thruster for maneuverability at low-cost, to enable reliable recovery of UUVs without deploying a CRRC or divers in sea-state 4+ and in full darkness. This project uses proven inflatable technology being developed under three successful ongoing Navy programs that involve securing underwater and surface vehicles using compliant inflatables. Directly relevant at-sea test data on these inflatable systems is available, reducing the development risk and cost of the UUV CADDIE system.

Benefit:
The CADDIE is being developed with a specific customer in mind: Naval Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). We will focus on commercializing this product by first transitioning the CADDIE to NECC, and then subsequently adapting it for other customers and applications. Navatek understands from correspondence with the TPOC that the Navy has a significant number of Mk18 Mod2 UUVs already and expects to acquire more soon. This platform will be the focus of the first CADDIE prototype. In addition, the CADDIE design could be used to launch, retrieve, lift, stabilize, and tow a wide range of UUVs. Based on Navateks related work experience that has demonstrated this capability, it is possible to adapt the CADDIE to support launch and recovery operations of small unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) from larger vessels. This project will aim to transition a unique product that can launch and retrieve a wide variety of unmanned vehicles. In addition, the enabling technologies such as the ultra-lightweight, drop-stitch inflatable systems will be further developed, and its technical readiness level will be advanced.

Keywords:
remotely operated, remotely operated, Mark 18 Mod 2, Launch and Recovery, UUV, inflatable, compliant, Mark VI Patrol Boat, USV

During Phase I, the design of new system to deploy and retrieve a Mk 18 Mod 2 UUV from a Mark VI Patrol Boat (Mk VI) was conceptualized, developed, and simulated. The resulting design, shown in Figure 1, is titled the Capture and Deploy Device using Inflatable Elements (CaDDIE). It is a combination of inflatable drop-stitch technology, an aluminum chassis, and electric thrusters. Phase I results show that the CaDDIE will successfully perform launch and recovery (L&R) operations with approved Mk 18 Mod 2 UUV from the aft deck of a Mk VI in a variety of sea states without the assistance of a manned Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC). Following on the success of Phase I, the proposed Phase II technical effort involves the detailed design of the CaDDIE, producing a development level Technical Data Package, and the fabrication and testing of a full-scale demonstrator. Testing of the demonstrator would start in controlled conditions and subsequently move to an open-ocean environment with a surrogate UUV. Testing would then progress to L&R operations with an actual Mk 18 Mod 2 at Charles River Analytics, Inc. Marine test facility in Rhode Island.

Benefit:
The CaDDIE was developed specifically to fit a need of the Naval Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). We will focus on commercializing this product by first transitioning the CaDDIE to NECC, and then subsequently adapting it for other customers and platforms such as the other UUVs from Hydroid. The Navy already has a significant number of Mk18 Mod2 UUVs and anticipates it will acquire more soon. An estimate for the total number of units for acquisition will be determined during Phase II of the program and revenue projections will be based on those figures. The lifecycle, which will determine future replacement orders, will be identified after testing and understanding the long-term durability of the system. The UUV market is experiencing high growth in military sectors. Navateks CaDDIE design could be used to transport, launch, and recover a wide range of UUVs. Other related work indicates it is possible to adapt the CaDDIE design to support launch and recovery operations of small unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) from larger vessels. Smaller UUVs and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) could also benefit from the use of a CaDDIE in the event that the launch and recovery system of the supporting vessel is inoperable. We anticipate that a Phase III SBIR program will involve transitioning the technology to operational use by NECC (and potentially other customers such as Naval Special Warfare) and focusing on dual-use applications for commercial and recreational maritime platforms. We expect that this will be the primary vehicle we will use to bring the technology to market. An estimated cost for a Phase III program will vary depending on the results of a Phase II effort. This approach to commercialization is not new to Navatek, and we are executing a nearly identical strategy in the IMPRS project. These efforts have convinced Navateks management that there is real potential for transition to military customers and commercial sales in the maritime launch & recovery market, and thus this area of research is supported, including investing our own internal research and development (IRAD) dollars.

Keywords:
recovery, launch, Unmanned Vehicle, MK VI, inflatable structure, Patrol Boat