Automated Buoy Refueling Station for Multiple USVs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current at-sea refueling systems for unmanned surface vessels (USVs) face challenges such as limited endurance due to restricted mission time, queuing problems, and safety risks in deteriorating sea conditions, as they require a host vessel for refueling, which limits the host vessel's operational efficiency and increases hazards.
Innovation Solution
A ship or air deployable automated fueling station with a ballast arrangement to maintain optimal freeboard, equipped with fuel sensors, GPS receivers, latching sensors, and communication systems for secure and efficient refueling of multiple USVs, allowing them to operate independently of a host vessel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a host vessel is used for refueling USVs, then refueling capability is provided, but the host vessel's operational efficiency is limited and it must remain close to the mission area
Solution Approach 1:
The refueling function is extracted from the host vessel and implemented as an independent automated buoy. The buoy contains its own fuel storage tanks, pumping systems, and control electronics, allowing it to operate autonomously without requiring a host vessel for refueling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated buoy refueling station is self-sufficient with onboard fuel storage, pumping systems, and control electronics. It can independently perform refueling operations without requiring a host vessel, enabling the system to serve multiple USVs simultaneously without limiting host vessel operations.
2Ease of operation
If a host vessel recovers and refuels USVs, then refueling is performed, but the host vessel is restricted in course and speed and cannot launch or recover other USVs
Solution Approach 1:
The refueling operation is extracted from the host vessel's operational constraints and performed by an independent automated buoy. The buoy can position itself optimally for refueling without restricting the mobility or operational flexibility of the host vessel.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated buoy serves as an intermediary between the host vessel and USVs for refueling operations. It provides a mobile, independent refueling platform that can operate autonomously without requiring the host vessel to maintain specific positions or speeds.
3Productivity
If multiple USVs wait for refueling one at a time, then refueling is performed sequentially, but queuing problems occur and total mission time is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The refueling system is segmented into multiple independent fuel dispensing points on the buoy, each capable of serving a different USV simultaneously. This segmentation allows multiple vessels to be refueled at the same time, eliminating queuing and maximizing mission time utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated buoy is designed with multiple fuel tanks, dispensing nozzles, and control systems that can simultaneously serve multiple USVs. This multi-functional capability allows the single buoy to perform multiple refueling operations concurrenty, dramatically increasing throughput.
4Adaptability or versatility
If refueling is performed in deteriorating sea conditions, then refueling may be possible, but safety risks increase and operations become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The automated buoy performs refueling operations autonomously with onboard sensors and control systems that monitor sea conditions and operational parameters. This self-service capability allows the system to detect and respond to deteriorating conditions without requiring human intervention or host vessel support.
Solution Approach 2:
The buoy incorporates sensors and communication systems that provide continuous feedback on sea conditions, fuel levels, and operational status. This feedback enables the automated system to adjust operations or seek shelter when deteriorating conditions are detected, maintaining safety while preserving refueling capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables simultaneous refueling of multiple USVs, maintaining operational efficiency and safety by reducing dependence on host vessels, improving mission effectiveness and reducing hazards in varying sea conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a ballast arrangement for maintaining the fueling station at a predetermined freeboard
Data Source
AI summary
A fueling system including a ship or air deployable automated fueling station and one or more sea surface water vessels. The fueling station including a ballast arrangement to maintain an optimal freeboard for fueling the one or more water vessels, the fueling station and the one or more water vessels including a communication arrangement for communications between the fueling station and the one or more water vessels. The fueling station including a plurality of nozzles for simultaneously fueling a plurality of water vessels.