U.S. patent application number 12/848455 was filed with the patent office on 2011-10-20 for remotely-triggered submerged launch canisters and methods relating to the usage and preparation thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to RAYTHEON COMPANY. Invention is credited to David E. Bossert, Ray Sampson, Jeffrey N. Zerbe.
Application Number | 20110253025 12/848455 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44787162 |
Filed Date | 2011-10-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110253025 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bossert; David E. ; et
al. |
October 20, 2011 |
REMOTELY-TRIGGERED SUBMERGED LAUNCH CANISTERS AND METHODS RELATING
TO THE USAGE AND PREPARATION THEREOF
Abstract
Embodiments of a method are provided for remotely deploying a
waterborne object utilizing a submerged launch canister including a
remotely-triggered deployment system. In one embodiment, the method
includes the steps of placing the remotely-triggered deployment
system in a launch-ready state, and positioning the submerged
launch canister within a body of water. In a further embodiment
wherein the waterborne object assumes the form of an Unmanned
Underwater Vehicle, the method includes the step of transmitting a
wireless signal to the remotely-triggered deployment system to
initiate launch of the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle after the
submerged launch canister has been positioned on the seafloor.
Inventors: |
Bossert; David E.; (Tucson,
AZ) ; Zerbe; Jeffrey N.; (Oro Valley, AZ) ;
Sampson; Ray; (Dartmouth, CA) |
Assignee: |
RAYTHEON COMPANY
Waltham
MA
|
Family ID: |
44787162 |
Appl. No.: |
12/848455 |
Filed: |
August 2, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61325712 |
Apr 19, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
114/312 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41F 3/10 20130101; F41F
3/07 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
114/312 |
International
Class: |
B63G 8/00 20060101
B63G008/00 |
Claims
1. A method for remotely deploying a waterborne object utilizing a
submerged launch canister including a remotely-triggered deployment
system, the method comprising the steps of: placing the
remotely-triggered deployment system in a launch-ready state; and
positioning the submerged launch canister within a body of
water.
2. A method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of
transmitting a remote launch signal to the remotely-trigged
deployment system to initiate launch of the waterborne object.
3. A method according to claim 2 wherein the step of transmitting
comprises transmitting an acoustic launch signal to the
remotely-trigged deployment system to initiate launch of the
waterborne object.
4. A method according to claim 1 wherein the step of positioning
the submerged launch canister within a body of water comprises:
transporting the submerged launch canister to a desired location of
deployment; and jettisoning the submerged launch canister into the
body of water.
5. A method according to claim 1 wherein the step of positioning
the submerged launch canister within a body of water comprises:
transporting the submerged launch canister to a desired location of
deployment; and diver-emplacing the submerged launch canister on
the seafloor.
6. A method according to claim 1 wherein the remotely-triggered
deployment system further comprises an activation switch, and
wherein the step of placing the remotely-triggered deployment
system in a launch-ready state comprises actuating the activation
switch prior to positioning the submerged launch canister within
the body of water.
7. A method according to claim 6 wherein the activation switch
comprises a pull pin, and wherein the step of actuating comprises
removing the pull pin.
8. A method according to claim 1 wherein the submerged launch
canister includes a pressurized gas reservoir and a pressure vessel
having a storage cavity fluidly coupled to the pressurized gas
reservoir, and wherein the method further comprises the step of
filling the pressurized gas reservoir with a pressurized gas.
9. A method according to claim 8 wherein the submerged launch
canister further includes an external fill port fluidly coupled to
the pressurized gas reservoir, and wherein the step of filling
comprises filling the pressurized gas reservoir with a pressurized
gas through the external fill port after transporting the submerged
launch canister to a desired location of deployment.
10. A method according to claim 9 wherein the step of filling the
pressurized gas reservoir with a pressurized gas through the
external fill port comprises filling the pressurized gas reservoir
with an oxygen tank.
11. A method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of
loading the waterborne object into the submerged launch canister
prior to positioning the submerged launch canister within the body
of water.
12. A method according to claim 11 wherein the waterborne object
comprises an unmanned underwater vehicle, wherein the submerged
launch canister includes a pressure vessel having a storage cavity
therein, and wherein the step of loading the waterborne object into
the submerged launch canister comprising inserting the unmanned
underwater vehicle into the storage cavity.
13. A method according to claim 12 wherein the submerged launch
canister further includes a watertight cap movable between an open
position and a closed position wherein the watertight cap engages
the pressure vessel to sealingly enclose the storage cavity, and
wherein the method further comprises the step of placing watertight
cap in the closed position after inserting the unmanned underwater
vehicle into the storage cavity.
14. A method according to claim 13 wherein the watertight cap is
biased toward the open position, wherein the submerged launch
canister further includes cap release mechanism coupled to the
pressure vessel, and wherein the method further comprises the step
of moving the cap release mechanism into a position wherein the cap
release mechanism maintains the watertight cap in the closed
position.
15. A method for remotely deploying an unmanned underwater vehicle
stored within a submerged launch canister including a
remotely-triggered deployment system, the method comprising the
steps of: transmitting a wireless signal to the remotely-triggered
deployment system to initiate launch of the unmanned underwater
vehicle after the submerged launch canister has been positioned on
a seafloor.
16. A method according to claim 15 wherein the step of transmitting
comprises transmitting an acoustic signal to the remotely-triggered
deployment system to initiate launch of the unmanned underwater
vehicle.
17. A method for preparing a submerged launch canister for the
remote deployment of an unmanned underwater vehicle, the submerged
launch canister including pressure vessel having a storage cavity
therein, a pressurized gas reservoir fluidly coupled to the storage
cavity, a flow control valve fluidly coupled between the
pressurized gas reservoir and the storage cavity, and a watertight
cap movable between an open position and a closed position wherein
the watertight cap sealingly engages the pressure vessel to enclose
the storage cavity, the method comprising the steps of: placing the
flow control valve in a closed position wherein the flow control
valve prevents pressurized gas flow from the pressurized gas
reservoir into the storage cavity; inserting the unmanned
underwater vehicle into the storage cavity; and moving the
watertight cap to the closed position.
18. A method according to claim 17 further comprising the step of
filling the pressurized gas reservoir with a pressurized gas.
19. A method according to claim 17 wherein the submerged launch
canister further includes a remotely-triggered deployment system
having an activation switch, and wherein the method further
comprises the step of actuating the activation switch to power-up
the remotely-triggered deployment system after transporting the
submerged launch canister to a desired location of deployment.
20. A method according to claim 17 wherein the watertight cap is
biased toward the open position, wherein the submerged launch
canister further includes a cap release mechanism coupled to the
pressure vessel, and wherein the method further comprises the step
of positioning the cap release mechanism to maintain the watertight
cap in the closed position.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 61/325,712, filed Apr. 19, 2010, the entire
contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The following disclosure relates generally to underwater
deployment systems and, more specifically, to submerged launch
canisters utilized to remotely deploy Unmanned Underwater Vehicles
and other waterborne objects, as well as to methods relating to the
usage and preparation of such submerged launch canisters.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (also commonly referred to as
"Autonomous Underwater Vehicles") are utilized for various purposes
in military and civilian contexts. In the military context,
Unmanned Underwater Vehicles ("UUVs") may be employed to perform
oceanic and littoral surveillance or to detect, and possibly
disable, naval mines or other threats. Widespread in-field usage of
UUVs has, however, been somewhat hindered by the lack of a
straightforward, rugged, and reliable means that can be utilized by
non-technical military personnel to deploy Unmanned Underwater
Vehicles on an ad hoc, as-needed basis. In addition, the duration
of time over which an Unmanned Underwater Vehicle can operate
autonomously is inherently limited by the capacity of the battery
or batteries deployed aboard the UUV. It is generally not practical
for an Unmanned Underwater Vehicle to remain dormant and exposed on
the seafloor for a prolonged period of time prior to activation.
Unmanned Underwater Vehicles are thus subject to timing constraints
that may deter or prevent UUV deployment when the time frame for
accomplishment of mission objectives is uncertain or relatively
lengthy; e.g., several days or weeks post-deployment.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0004] In view of the foregoing section entitled "Background,"
there exists an ongoing need to provide embodiments of a deployment
device that can be utilized to reliably deploy an Unmanned
Underwater Vehicle (or other waterborne object) or to pre-position
an Unmanned Underwater Vehicle on the seafloor for deployment at a
later juncture. In the latter regard, it is particularly desirable
to provide a deployment device that enables an Unmanned Underwater
Vehicle to be pre-positioned at a desired location of deployment
and to be remotely activated at a subsequently-determined time to
maximize the post-deployment operational lifespan of the Unmanned
Underwater Vehicle. It is also generally desirable for such a
deployment device to be cost-effective, scalable, handsafe, rugged,
and relatively straightforward to operate to facilitate usage by
in-field military personnel, including divers operating in
potentially adverse maritime conditions (e.g., low ambient light,
Sea States approaching or exceeding Code 3, etc.). Finally, it is
desirable to embodiments of a method for the utilization and
preparation of such a deployment device. Other desirable features
and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent
from the subsequent Detailed Description and the appended Claims,
taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings and
Background.
[0005] To satisfy some or all of the foregoing needs, embodiments
of a method are provided for remotely deploying a waterborne object
utilizing a submerged launch canister including a
remotely-triggered deployment system. In one embodiment, the method
includes the steps of placing the remotely-triggered deployment
system in a launch-ready state, and positioning the submerged
launch canister within a body of water. In a further embodiment
wherein the waterborne object assumes the form of an Unmanned
Underwater Vehicle, the method includes the step of transmitting a
wireless signal to the remotely-triggered deployment system to
initiate launch of the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle after the
submerged launch canister has been positioned on a seafloor.
[0006] Embodiments of a method for preparing a submerged launch
canister for the remote deployment of an unmanned underwater
vehicle are also provided. The submerged launch canister including
pressure vessel having a storage cavity therein, a pressurized gas
reservoir fluidly coupled to the storage cavity, a flow control
valve fluidly coupled between the pressurized gas reservoir and the
storage cavity, and a watertight cap movable between an open
position and a closed position wherein the watertight cap sealingly
engages the pressure vessel to enclose the storage cavity. In one
embodiment, the method includes the steps of placing the flow
control valve in a closed position wherein the flow control valve
prevents pressurized gas flow from the pressurized gas reservoir
into the storage cavity, inserting the unmanned underwater vehicle
into the storage cavity, and moving the watertight cap to the
closed position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] At least one example of the present invention will
hereinafter be described in conjunction with the following
Figures:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a submerged launch
canister in a watertight transport state and illustrated in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method
suitable for carrying-out the underwater deployment of an Unmanned
Underwater Vehicle utilizing the submerged launch canister shown in
FIG. 1; and
[0010] FIGS. 3 and 4 are generalized isometric views of the
submerged launch canister shown in FIG. 1 in watertight transport
and launch states, respectively, and utilized to deploy an Unmanned
Underwater Vehicle in accordance with the exemplary method
illustrated in FIG. 2.
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0011] The following Detailed Description is merely exemplary in
nature and is not intended to limit the invention or the
application and uses of the invention. To the contrary, many
embodiments of the submerged launch canister and the like are not
limited by the drawings or other representations contained herein,
but rather encompass a wide range of equivalent embodiments that
incorporate the general concepts set-forth in this document and its
attachments. The term "canister" as appearing herein is defined
broadly to include any sealable container, regardless of shape,
size, structural features, material composition, etc., suitable for
the underwater transport and deployment of an Unmanned Underwater
Vehicle or other waterborne object as described more fully below.
As further appearing herein, the term "seafloor" is utilized to
denote any submerged surface that may support the submerged launch
canister as further described below.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a Submerged Launch
(SL) canister 10 in a watertight transport state and illustrated in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
As will be described more fully below, SL canister 10 enables a
waterborne object (or objects) stored within canister 10 to be
safely transported and deployed from within a body of water in
response to a wireless launch signal, such as an acoustic launch
signal. SL canister 10 is especially well-suited for the transport
and the remotely-initiated launch of an Unmanned Underwater
Vehicle, such as a robotic submarine, utilized to perform
reconnaissance or other functionalities when operational. For this
reason, SL canister 10 is illustrated in FIG. 1 and described
herein below in conjunction with a generalized Unmanned Underwater
Vehicle (UUV) 12. It is, however, emphasized that embodiments of SL
canister 10 can be utilized to transport and launch various other
types of waterborne objects including, but not limited to,
waterborne sensor packages, waterborne munitions, waterborne
sub-munitions, waterborne communications relays and signal
emitters, waterborne jammers, and the like.
[0013] SL canister 10 includes a pressure vessel 14 having an upper
open end portion 16, a lower closed end portion 18, and a main
storage cavity 20. The dimensions of storage cavity 20 and, more
generally, the dimensions of pressure vessel 14 can be scaled, as
appropriate, to accommodate waterborne objects of various sizes;
e.g., as indicated in FIG. 1, the dimensions of pressure vessel 14
can be chosen such that the inner diameter of storage cavity 20 is
slightly larger than the outer diameter of UUV 12. The geometry of
pressure vessel 14 may also be varied, as desired; however, it is
preferred that pressure vessel 14 is generally tubular in shape to
optimize the structural integrity of pressure vessel 14 and to
facilitate transport and storage of SL canister 10 using, for
example, universal boat rack systems. When UUV 12 is stored within
main storage cavity 20, UUV 12 and SL canister 10 may be
collectively referred to as an "All-Up Round."
[0014] SL canister 10 further includes a watertight cap 22 and a
hinge member 24, which hingedly couples watertight cap 22 to open
end portion 16 of pressure vessel 14. Watertight cap 22 is
rotatable between a closed position (illustrated in FIG. 1) and an
open position (illustrated in FIG. 4, described below). In the
closed position, watertight cap 22 sealingly engages open end
portion 16 to prevent the ingress of water into storage cavity 20
and the premature wetting of UUV 12 during underwater transport of
SL canister 10. To improve the sealing characteristics of
watertight cap 22 in the closed position, one or more seals may be
disposed between watertight cap 22 and open end portion 16 of
pressure vessel 14. For example, as generically illustrated in FIG.
1, an O-ring 27 may be disposed around a cylindrical protrusion 26
provided on the underside of watertight cap 22. When watertight cap
22 is in the closed position, O-ring 27 is sealingly compressed
between the outer circumferential wall of cylindrical protrusion 26
and an inner circumferential wall of open end portion 16 to provide
a watertight seal to a depth of, for example, several hundred
meters. Although not shown in FIG. 1 for clarity, a waterproof
membrane (e.g., a Mylar.RTM. film) can be installed within open end
portion 16 between UUV 12 and watertight cap 22 to further deter
the premature wetting of UUV 12 in the unlikely event that water
should ingress into storage cavity 20 during usage of SL canister
10.
[0015] Watertight cap 22 is conveniently, although not necessarily,
biased toward the open position by one or more resilient elements.
For example, as indicated in FIG. 1, a compression spring 28 may be
compressed between watertight cap 22 and open end portion 16 when
watertight cap 22 is in the closed position to resiliently urge
watertight cap 22 toward the open position. Alternatively, and as a
second example, watertight cap 22 may be biased toward the open
position by a torsion spring included within hinge member 24. In
embodiments wherein watertight cap 22 is biased toward the open
position, SL canister 10 is further equipped with a cap release
mechanism 30, which physically prevents cap 22 from rotating into
the open position until the desired time of deployment. Although
cap release mechanism 30 may assume any form suitable for
maintaining watertight cap 22 in the closed position, it is
generally desirable for cap release mechanism 30 to comprise a
relatively simple and rugged device, such as a solenoid, to ensure
reliability in harsh operating environments.
[0016] SL canister 10 is negatively buoyant and will consequently
sink to the seafloor if jettisoned from a surface ship, submarine,
aircraft, or other vehicle, as described below in conjunction with
STEP 76 of method 70 (FIG. 2). Furthermore, due to its negative
buoyancy, SL canister 10 will remain substantially stationary after
coming to rest on the seafloor. In embodiments wherein SL canister
10 is allowed to sink to the seafloor, SL canister 10 includes
certain characteristics and structural features to ensure that SL
canister 10 comes to rest in an orientation appropriate for the
subsequent launch of UUV 12. For example, SL canister 10 is
preferably asymmetrically weighted (i.e., the bottom of SL canister
10 is heavier than is the top portion of SL canister 10, when
loaded) to ensure that SL canister 10 comes to rest on the seafloor
in an at least partially upright position. In addition, SL canister
10 may be equipped with a stand member 32, which elevates open end
portion 16 from the seafloor. Stand member 32 may assume the form
of a deployment ring mounted around pressure vessel 14 proximate
open end portion 16, which extends radially outward from pressure
vessel 14 to contact the seafloor and thereby elevate open end
portion 16 above the seafloor when SL canister 10 is supported
thereby. In further embodiments, stand member 32 can assume the
form of a pivotal arm that can be moved outward from the body of
pressure vessel 14 by an actuator to elevate open end portion 16
immediately prior to launch of UUV 12. In still further
embodiments, stand member 32 may comprise a flotation device (e.g.,
an inflatable float collar) disposed around open end portion 16 of
pressure vessel 14 to impart upper end portion 16 of pressure
vessel 14 with a positive buoyancy.
[0017] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, SL
canister 10 is further equipped with a vacuum port 40 and a
pressure relief valve 42. Vacuum port 40 and pressure relief valve
42 are each fluidly coupled to main storage cavity 20 of pressure
vessel 14. In the illustrated example, specifically, pressure
relief valve 42 is mounted through a central portion of watertight
cap 22, and vacuum port 40 is mounted through the annular wall of
pressure vessel 14. Vacuum port 40 enables the sealing
characteristics of SL canister 10 to be tested when watertight cap
22 is in the closed position prior to submersion of canister 10. By
comparison, pressure relief valve 42 vents gas flow from storage
cavity 20 to the exterior of SL canister 10 if the pressure within
storage cavity 20 should surpass a predetermined upper threshold
due to, for example, combustion of an electrical or chemical
component (e.g., a lithium ion battery) included within UUV 12. In
so doing, pressure relief valve 42 prevents the pressure within
storage cavity 20 from accumulating to undesirably high levels and,
thus, helps render SL canister 10 handsafe. In one embodiment,
vacuum port 40 and pressure relief valve 42 each assume the form of
a spring-loaded poppet valve.
[0018] SL canister 10 further includes a remotely-triggered
deployment system 44, which is configured to carry-out the launch
of UUV 12 pursuant to receipt of a wireless launch signal, such as
an acoustic launch signal. Deployment system 44 may be configured
to initiate launch of UUV 12 upon or immediately after receipt of
an acoustic launch signal. Alternatively, deployment system 44 may
be configured to initiate launch of UUV 12 after elapse of a
predetermined time period commencing upon receipt of the acoustic
launch signal. As a still further possibility, deployment system 44
may initiate launch of UUV 12 at a time period subsequent to
receipt of the acoustic launch signal and specified by the acoustic
launch signal. In each of the foregoing instances,
remotely-triggered deployment system 44 initiates deployment of UUV
12 in response to receipt of a wireless launch signal.
[0019] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1,
remotely-triggered deployment system 44 includes a controller 46, a
power supply 54 (e.g., one or more lithium ion batteries), and a
propellant device 56. In addition, deployment system 44 includes at
least one wireless sensor, which, in the illustrated example,
assumes the form of an acoustic sensor 50 having at least one
microphone 52. Controller 46 includes a first input, which is
coupled to an output of acoustic sensor 50; a first output, which
is coupled to an input of cap release mechanism 30 (indicated in
FIG. 1 by dashed line 58); and a second output, which is coupled to
the input of a component included within propellant device 56
(e.g., valve actuator 60, described below). Controller 46 can
include any suitable number of individual microprocessors,
microcontrollers, digital signal processors, programmed arrays,
memories, and other standard components known in the art. In
addition, controller 46 may perform or cooperate with any number of
programs or instructions designed to analyze acoustic signals
received via acoustic sensor 50 and to carry-out various versions
of the launch sequence described below. Acoustic sensor 50 may
comprise any device suitable for detecting an acoustic launch
signal, as described more fully below in conjunction with FIGS.
2-4.
[0020] In certain embodiments, an activation switch 48 may be
coupled to a second input of controller 46 to enable controller 46,
and more generally deployment system 44, to be powered-up
immediately prior to positioning on the seafloor. Activation switch
48 may comprise a device (e.g., a saltwater switch) that
automatically determines when SL canister 10 has been submerged
within an ocean or other body of water. This notwithstanding,
activation switch 48 preferably assumes the form of a manual switch
that can be actuated by a diver immediately prior to
diver-emplacement or by other military personnel immediately prior
to jettison from a surface ship, a submarine, an aircraft, or
similar vehicle. In one embodiment, activation switch 48 assumes
the form of a pull plug that can be easily removed by a diver
operating in adverse maritime conditions (e.g., low ambient light,
Sea States approaching or exceeding Code 3, etc.) and wearing
diver's gloves, a diver's mask, and other scuba gear.
[0021] Propellant device 56 can assume any form, and may include
any number of structural elements or components (e.g., springs,
explosive Cartridge Actuated Devices, etc.), suitable for ejecting
UUV 12 from storage cavity 20 and through open end portion 16 of
pressure vessel 14 at the desired time of deployment. In a
preferred embodiment, propellant device 56 includes a pressurized
gas reservoir containing a gas or a gas mixture that can be
released into storage cavity 20 to propel UUV 12 therefrom. In the
illustrated example, specifically, propellant device 56 includes a
valve actuator 60, a flow control valve 62, and a pressurized gas
reservoir 64 having an external fill port 66. A first flow passage
68 fluidly couples storage cavity 20 to flow control valve 62,
which is, in turn, fluidly coupled to pressurized gas reservoir 64
by a second flow passage 69. External fill port 66 enables a diver
or other military personnel to fill pressurized gas reservoir 64
with a gas (e.g., oxygen) or gas mixture (e.g., carbon dioxide)
prior to positioning of SL canister 10 on the seafloor. By enabling
pressurized gas reservoir 64 to be filled immediately prior to
placement of SL canister 10, SL canister 10 can remain
"de-energized" during primary transport and thereby help render SL
canister 10 handsafe. Pressurized gas reservoir 64 conveniently
assumes the form of a hollow cylindrical or annular metal body
mounted to or around lower end portion 18 of pressure vessel 14. In
this case, deployment system 44 may comprise a separate module
mounted to pressure vessel 14 adjacent pressurized gas reservoir
64, as generally illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 (described
below).
[0022] Flow control valve 62 normally resides in a closed position
wherein valve 62 prevents gas flow from pressurized gas reservoir
64, through flow passage 68, and into storage cavity 20. When
commanded by controller 46, valve actuator 60 moves flow control
valve 62 into an open position. More specifically, valve actuator
60 may move a valve element included within flow control valve 62
from a position that generally blocks gas flow through the flow
passage of valve 62 to a position that permits gas flow through the
flow passage of valve 62. Alternatively, valve actuator 60 may
puncture, rupture, or otherwise break a sealing element (e.g., a
diaphragm, a rupture disc, etc.) included within flow control valve
62 to enable gas flow through valve 62. When flow control valve 62
is opened in this manner, pressurized gas rapidly flows from
pressurized gas reservoir 64 into storage cavity 20 to propel UUV
12 therefrom. Valve actuator 60 may comprise any device suitable
for moving flow control valve 62 into an open position upon command
by controller 46 to allow pressurized gas flow from pressurized gas
reservoir 64 into main storage cavity 20 in this manner. In one
embodiment, actuator 60 assumes the form of a solenoid electrically
coupled to controller 46.
[0023] When deployment system 44 is powered-up (e.g., via actuation
of switch 48), controller 46 receives input data from acoustic
sensor 50 indicative of acoustic noises detected by microphone 52.
Operating in a quiescent listening mode, controller 46 analyzes the
input data received from acoustic sensor 50 to determine when and
if the acoustic launch signal is detected by, for example,
comparison to one or more signal templates stored within a memory
associated with controller 46 (not shown). The acoustic launch
signal may be an encoded signal emitted by a command source, such
as a nearby command vessel. Alternatively, the acoustic launch
signal may be the acoustic signature of a specific type of surface
ship or submarine. When determining that an acoustic launch signal
is detected, controller 46 initiates launch of UUV 12. The launch
sequence carried-out by controller 46, and more generally by
deployment system 44, will inevitably vary in conjunction with the
structural features and functionalities of SL canister 10; however,
to provide a non-limiting example, an exemplary launch sequence
that may be performed by deployment system 44 is described below in
conjunction with STEP 86 of method 70 (FIG. 2).
[0024] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method 70
for the deployment of a waterborne object, such as Unmanned
Underwater Vehicle 12 shown in FIG. 1. For ease of explanation,
exemplary method 70 will be described in conjunction with the
above-described exemplary embodiment of SL canister 10 illustrated
in FIG. 1 and further illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. It is, however,
emphasized that exemplary method 70 may be carried-out utilizing
embodiments other than the illustrated exemplary embodiment of
Submerged Launch canister 10, which may vary in structural features
and functionalities. Similarly, exemplary method 70 is presented by
way of example only, and further embodiments of method 70 may
include additional steps, may omit certain steps, or may perform
steps in an order different than that shown in FIG. 2 and described
herein below.
[0025] To commence method 70 (STEP 72, FIG. 2), SL canister 10 is
transported to the desired location of deployment. SL canister 10
can be transported to the desired location of deployment utilizing
any combination of vehicles and personnel, including one or more
surface boats, submarines, flooded vehicles, aircraft, and military
divers. As one specific example, a submarine or surface boat may
first transport SL canister 10 and at least one diver to a waypoint
nearby the designated location of deployment. SL canister 10 may
then be loaded onto an intermediary vehicle, such as a second
surface boat or a diver-operated flooded vehicle (e.g., a SEAL
delivery vehicle). The diver may then navigate the intermediary
vehicle toward the designated location of deployment, halt the
intermediary vehicle prior to reaching the designated location of
deployment, unload SL canister 10 from the intermediary vehicle,
and swim SL canister 10 to the designated location of the
deployment.
[0026] After being transported to the desired location of
deployment (STEP 72, FIG. 2), SL canister 10 is placed in a
launch-ready state (STEP 74, FIG. 2). For example, in embodiments
wherein SL canister 10 includes a manual activation switch (e.g.,
activation switch 48 shown in FIG. 1), the activation switch may be
actuated by a diver or other military personnel (e.g., if
activation switch 48 includes a pull plug, the diver may remove the
pull plug). Additionally, in embodiments wherein propellant device
56 comprises a pressurized gas reservoir (e.g., gas reservoir 64
shown in FIG. 1) intended to be filled immediately prior to
entrenchment of SL canister 10, a diver may fill the pressurized
gas reservoir with a gas or gas mixture while the diver remains
underwater and before swimming to the deployment location
utilizing, for example, a spare oxygen tank carried by the diver or
by an intermediary vehicle (e.g., a SEAL delivery vehicle).
Alternatively, military personnel aboard a surface boat, submarine,
or aircraft may fill the pressurized gas reservoir with a gas or
gas mixture prior to jettison of SL canister 10 into the
surrounding body of water.
[0027] SL canister 10 is next positioned or implanted on the
seafloor (STEP 76, FIG. 2). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3
by arrow 78 and waterline 80, SL canister 10 may be jettisoned from
a surface boat, submarine, or aircraft and then allowed to sink to
the seafloor. In other embodiments, SL canister 10 may be emplaced
by a diver at a desired location on the seafloor, possibly after
the diver has navigated a flooded vehicle (e.g., a SEAL delivery
vehicle) to the desired location of deployment as previously
described. FIG. 4 illustrates SL canister 10 after positioning of
SL canister 10 on the seafloor. In embodiments wherein SL canister
10 includes a stand member, such as stand member 32 shown in FIG.
4, the stand member elevates the open end portion of pressure
vessel 14 from the seafloor (represented in FIG. 4 by line 34) to
ensure that UUV 12 is propelled away from the seafloor during
launch.
[0028] After being placed in a launch-ready state (STEP 74, FIG. 2)
and positioned on the seafloor (STEP 76, FIG. 2) in the
above-described manner, deployment system 44 awaits reception of
the wireless launch signal (STEP 82, FIG. 2). Depending, in part,
upon the energy storage capabilities of power supply 54, deployment
system 44 may be capable of remaining in a quiescent listening mode
for a duration of several weeks. In embodiments wherein deployment
system 44 is equipped with one or more acoustic sensors (e.g.,
acoustic sensor 50 shown in FIG. 1), the wireless launch signal may
be an acoustic command signal emitted from a nearby command source
(e.g., a surface ship or submarine) or, instead, the acoustic
signature of a target vessel.
[0029] Next, at STEP 84 (FIG. 2), an acoustic (or other wireless)
launch signal is transmitted to and received by deployment system
44. In particular, controller 46 detects acoustic sounds utilizing
acoustic sensor 50 and, when determining that the acoustic sounds
correspond to a predetermined acoustic template stored within a
memory associated with controller 46 (not shown), controller 46
initiates the launch sequence of UUV 12 (STEP 86, FIG. 2). Although
the launch sequence will vary depending upon the particular
structural features and functionalities of SL canister 10, in one
embodiment of the launch sequence, controller 46 first commands or
otherwise causes cap release mechanism 30 to release watertight cap
22 from the closed position (FIGS. 1 and 3). FIG. 4 illustrates SL
canister 10 after watertight cap 22 has rotated into the open
position. Controller 46 then commands valve actuator 60 to move
flow control valve 62 into an open position to enable gas flow from
pressurized gas reservoir 64, through flow passage 69, through flow
control valve 62, through flow passage 68, and into storage cavity
20. As indicated in FIG. 4 by arrow 88, the pressurized gas flowing
into storage cavity 20 propels UUV 12 through open end portion 16
and into the surrounding body of water. Now deployed, UUV 12 may
perform surveillance or other functionalities in accordance with
predetermined mission parameters.
[0030] In embodiments wherein UUV 12 is non-active or operates in a
quiescent mode prior to deployment, UUV 12 is preferably configured
to be activated during deployment or immediately thereafter. For
example, UUV 12 may include a switch, such as a magnetic switch or
other switch (e.g., a pull switch tethered to SL canister 10 by a
lanyard), which is actuated during launch of UUV 12. Alternatively,
and as a second example, UUV 12 may include a saltwater switch,
which activates UUV 12 upon saltwater exposure. In still further
embodiments, such as in embodiments wherein UUV 12 is not fully
autonomous and operates in a quiescent listening mode prior to full
activation, UUV 12 may include a receiver or a transceiver that
permits UUV 12 to be remotely activated via transmission of a
wireless (e.g., acoustic) activation signal transmitted subsequent
to the wireless launch signal.
[0031] The foregoing has thus provided at least one exemplary
embodiment of a deployment device (i.e., a submerged launch
canister) for the remotely-initiated deployment water borne object,
such as an Unmanned Underwater Vehicle. Notably, the
above-described exemplary launch canister is cost-effective,
scalable, handsafe, rugged, relatively straightforward to operate,
and consequently well-suited for in-field usage by military
personnel, including military divers operating in potentially
adverse maritime conditions (e.g., low ambient light, Sea States
approaching or exceeding Code 3, etc.). In addition, the
above-described exemplary launch canister enables an Unmanned
Underwater Vehicle (or other waterborne object) to be
pre-positioned at a desired location of deployment and wirelessly
activated at a subsequent time to maximize autonomous operational
longevity, and thereby increase the mission capabilities, of the
remotely-deployed Unmanned Underwater Vehicle.
[0032] The foregoing has also provided embodiments of a method for
carrying-out the remote deployment of an Unmanned Underwater
Vehicle (or other waterborne object) utilizing a submerged launch
canister. In addition, there has been provided embodiments of a
method for preparing a submerged launch canister for subsequent
usage. In at least one embodiment, the submerged launch canister
includes a pressure vessel having a storage cavity therein, a
pressurized gas reservoir fluidly coupled to the storage cavity, a
flow control valve fluidly coupled between the pressurized gas
reservoir and the storage cavity, and a watertight cap movable
between an open position and a closed position wherein the
watertight cap sealingly engages the pressure vessel to enclose the
storage cavity. In certain embodiments, the method includes the
steps of placing the flow control valve in a closed position
wherein the flow control valve prevents pressurized gas flow from
the pressurized gas reservoir into the storage cavity, inserting
the unmanned underwater vehicle into the storage cavity, and moving
the watertight cap to the closed position. The method may also
include the step of filling the pressurized gas reservoir with a
pressurized gas. In embodiments wherein the submerged launch
canister further includes a remotely-triggered deployment system
having an activation switch, the method may further include the
step of actuating the activation switch to power-up the
remotely-triggered deployment system after transporting the
submerged launch canister to a desired location of deployment.
Finally, in embodiments wherein the watertight cap is biased toward
the open position and the submerged launch canister further
includes a cap release mechanism coupled to the pressure vessel,
the method may further include the step of positioning the cap
release mechanism to maintain the watertight cap in the closed
position.
[0033] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented
in the foregoing Detailed Description, it should be appreciated
that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be
appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments
are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope,
applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way.
Rather, the foregoing Detailed Description will provide those
skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing an
exemplary embodiment of the invention. It being understood that
various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of
elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing
from the scope of the invention as set-forth in the appended
Claims.
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