Study of choice optimal launch and recovery system for USV motherships

Abstract

This paper provides results of the application and effectiveness analysis of most common types of launch and recovery system (LRS) for the unmanned surface vehicle (USV) mothership (MS): a deck-mounted crane, A-frame and stern ramp. The analysis bases on the example of a high ice-class hydrographic survey and navigation service ship. The hierarchy analysis method uses to assess the effectiveness. The first level of hierarchy consists ten criteria. As a result of the research it shows that the most important criteria in assessing the LRS effectiveness are redundancy capability, usage of area and resistance to the environment, as well as multi-functionality. The most minor criteria are the cost and manufacturability of LRS production. The applicability of various LRS analyzes by designing on MS example with a focus on the most important LRS effectiveness criteria. More than 50 variations of LRS and USV placing on the main deck consider. After performing an analysis of the applicability of various LRS and USV, the total effectiveness calculates. The best LRS variation for the present example is an A-frame. It should be noted that despite the fact that there is one leader after the assessment performed, the obtained values are quite close, which is coherent with appliance of all considered LRS types on research, hydrographic survey and other vessels.