부산대학교 도서관

The Sensor Hosting Autonomous and Remote Craft (SHARC) Wave Glider is an autonomous, surface vehicle (USV) used to collect and deliver real-time data in remote ocean locations around the world. Liquid Robotics Inc. (LRI) manufactures the Wave Glider for the defense, maritime surveillance, environmental assessment, and oil and gas industries. It is powered by wave energy and supplemented by solar energy using solar panels; no extra fuel is needed between voyages that may last up to a year. The Wave Glider consists of a platform float, submerged propulsor (glider or sub), and optional towed payload. The float and sub are connected by an umbilical tether. The launch and deployment process of the Wave Glider is relatively easy; however the recovery is more difficult and is associated with a high risk to the safety of the operators and the condition of the equipment. This project reviews a U.S. Navy-sponsored project to develop, test, and recommend a new recovery system according to specific design criteria. The project team consisted of five undergraduate ocean engineering students and three faculty advisers from the U.S. Naval Academy. Design alternatives were analyzed as separate parts: (1) to capture and lift the sub onto the recovery vessel and (2) to capture and lift the float on the recovery vessel. A proof-of-concept design included the use of a remotely operated lift bag system which was designed, manufactured, and installed on the sub to stop movement. Overall the design, manufacture, and testing of the proof-of-concept recovery system was successful.