MANEUVER, Integrated Approach for Dynamic Unsteady Situation Control Surface Development

MANEUVER is a focused, applied research effort that combines cutting edge biological and engineering techniques to provide a basis for advanced hydrodynamic control surfaces design for unsteady conditions and includes quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the technology as related to Navy Submarines, UUVs, and surface vessels. Empirical testing on a free-swimming vehicle is necessary for making solid connections between research and development and actual applicability to platforms. Therefore, Boston Engineerings world-class team intends to provide a path to feasible Navy technology by closing the loop where other efforts have been unable. By combining instrumented control surface concepts, tested in both advanced DPIV and on free swimming vehicles, the team provides research and direction with a high probability of tactical relevance and applicability. The ability to rapidly prototype and test concepts provides the connection between basic research in the area of interest and logistical issues involved in their application such as vehicle control, mounting consideration (loading), maneuver possibilities, and vehicle component layout. During these efforts, the team has developed the solutions as a system and incorporated lessons from fish and marine mammals as is appropriate.