A Novel Amphibious Platform with Stowable Cycloidal Propellers

Abstract

The overarching objective of the project is to is to design, build and field-test a small-scale (lengthof 1m) technology demonstrator prototype of a revolutionary amphibious vehicle concept with (1) smart cycloidal propellers capable of 360 degrees of instantaneous thrust vectoring to enable efficient propulsion in water and provide superior station keeping and maneuvering capabilities, (2) the ability to easily retract the cycloidal propellers and stow them inside the rims of the specially designed wheels during ground locomotion, (3) single transmission to drive both the propeller and the wheel with a simple clutch to disengage wheel while under water, and (4) individual speed control for propellers/wheels for improved mobility in water and on land. The vehicle should be able to effectively maneuver through the surf zone and make its way to and from the shore.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Jul 26, 2018
Source ID
N000141812296

Entities

People

  • Moble Benedict

Organizations

  • Office of Naval Research
  • Texas Engineering Experiment Station
  • United States Navy

Tags

Readers

  • Aerodynamics.
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Robotics and Automation.