Deep-water remotely operated mobile platform for sensor deployment, observation, development, and testing
Abstract
At-sea naval research capacity, and training opportunities inherent within, are limited to a fleet of civilian-operated vessels with open decks and limited ROV handling capacity. We propose a coupled ROV-internal moon pool deployed research and training vessel for naval research efforts over a suite of mission areas. This proposal seeks funding for Phase 1 (base vehicle design and construction) of a 4,000-meter #Odysseus Class# light work/exploration/science Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) by Pelagic Research Services (PRS), who have demonstrated excellence in this area. The ROV will be designed and built to integrate onto the Research Vessel Western Flyer, operated by the Florida Institute of Oceanography. Utilizing the proven design elements of PRS#s 6000-meter work class ROV system Odysseus, coupled and integrated with the proven ROV systems of the Western Flyer, FIO will receive a fully functional ROV system at the end of the three phase, 12-month build period. The ROV will be designed for ease of integration and testing of Navy-fundedmarine sensors and will provide a platform for an array of ocean research, technology development, and test and evaluation programsand activities. An interchangeable skid system will provide flexibility to meet a wide range of mission criteria. Through-frame lifting capabilities will allow retrieval or delivery of separate payloads. The ROV will be deployed via a moon pool on the 117-ft small water-plane area twin hull (SWATH) vessel Western Flyer, homeported at St. Petersburg, Florida, adjacent to a growing Maritime andDefense Technology Hub. The ROV and vessel capabilities will allow the development and rapid testing of new marine sensors that arecatalyzed in this innovative environment, which fosters public-private partnerships. Additionally, the ROV will foster new researchactivities and enhance educational opportunities in ocean STEM fields for under-represented undergraduate students as the main research tool for an Inclusive Training and Mentoring Program under development as the Western Flyer#s primary mission.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 06, 2023
- Source ID
- N000142312165
Entities
People
- Nicole Raineault
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of South Florida