Pivoting AUV/UUV Dock for Wave Energy Converter Drag Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing AUV/UUV systems require periodic retrieval and recharging, necessitating removal from the water, and there is a need for versatile underwater docking stations that can recharge batteries without removing the vehicles.

Innovation Solution

A pivoting docking station integrated with wave energy converters, utilizing a cone guide and cylinder for horizontal capture, and a movable weight to pivot between horizontal and vertical positions, allowing charging while minimizing drag on the WEC.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If AUV/UUV is captured horizontally using cone guide and cylinder, then the docking station can securely hold the vehicle, but the WEC experiences increased drag and cannot function normally

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedocking stabilityVSAvoiddrag on WEC

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The docking station incorporates a movable weight system that enables dynamic reconfiguration between horizontal and vertical positions. This allows the structure to adapt its orientation based on operational requirements, transitioning from a static horizontal docking configuration to a vertical configuration that reduces drag on the WEC during wave energy conversion operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the spatial parameter of the docking station by pivoting between horizontal and vertical orientations. This parameter change transforms the structural configuration from a horizontal capture position (optimized for vehicle docking) to a vertical position (optimized for minimizing drag on WEC operations), thereby resolving the contradiction between docking stability and WEC functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Use of energy by moving object

If AUV/UUV must be retrieved for recharging, then battery systems can be recharged, but operational continuity is interrupted and time is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebattery rechargingVSAvoidoperational interruption

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The docking station provides self-service recharging capability directly at the WEC structure. The AUV/UUV can recharge its battery systems while remaining docked at the underwater station, eliminating the need for retrieval to shore-based facilities. This self-service approach maintains operational continuity by allowing vehicles to recharge in situ without interrupting their deployment cycle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The docking station serves multiple functions: it acts as both a secure horizontal capture mechanism for vehicle docking and a vertical configuration for minimizing drag, while also providing in-water recharging capability. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling battery recharging to occur at the docking station itself, eliminating the time loss associated with vehicle retrieval and redeployment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If docking station remains in horizontal position, then AUV/UUV can be easily docked, but WEC functionality is impaired due to increased drag

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedocking easeVSAvoidenergy loss from drag

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The pivoting mechanism transforms the docking station from a static horizontal structure to a dynamic system that can assume both horizontal and vertical positions. The horizontal position facilitates easy docking operations with AUV/UUV, while the vertical position minimizes drag on WEC operations. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and energy loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The docking station employs periodic reconfiguration between horizontal and vertical positions based on operational phases. During docking operations, it assumes the horizontal position for ease of vehicle capture. During WEC energy conversion operations, it transitions to the vertical position to minimize drag and energy loss. This periodic action between configurations resolves the contradiction by optimizing for the appropriate function at the appropriate time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 reliable and versatile underwater recharging of AUV/UUVs, maintaining WEC functionality and reducing the need for vehicle retrieval.

Implementation Method 1

A movable weight is incorporated to change the center of gravity of the device to effect pivoting between horizontal and vertical positions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCenter of gravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS12459615B2Pivoting AUV/UUV dock for use with a wave energy converter

Publication Date: 2025.11.04 UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS

AI summary

An AUV/UUV docking station is provided that is tethered to a wave energy converter that is in turn tethered to a flotation buoy. The AUV/UUV docking station has a cone for directing an AUV/UUV into a charging dock that is rotatable between a horizontal docking position and a vertical charging position such that in the vertical position the docking station and docked AUV/UUV have a reduced profile so as not to interfere with the operation of the wave energy converter. Energy from the wave energy converter is directed to the dock to charge the AUV/UUV.