Soft Capture™
Patented universal launch and recovery system capable of handling a variety of shapes and sizes of gliders and other undersea vehicles.
Technology Overview
Soft Capture™ enables universal launch and recovery of gliders and UUVs with generally cylindrical shapes.
Soft Capture™ is a patented technology with a proof-of-concept model developed.
AMV intends to complete production and testing of a prototype in the near future.
Key Features and Benefits
Dramatically reduces or eliminates direct human involvement in glider and UUV launch and recovery, significantly improving safety and efficiency.
Universal system eliminates the need for proprietary launch and recovery technologies for each type of glider or UUV utilized on a ship or marine platform.
Patented design inherently centers gliders and UUVs, and mitigates relative motions, reducing craft damage and improving the chances of a successful recovery on the first attempt.
The Soft Capture™ technology may be utilized as an end effector on a crane, davit, or frame, or may be integrated on the undercarriage of a catamaran or SWATH-type hull, presenting a versatile option for integrated operations.
Controls may be integrated with a mothership and gliders/UUVs themselves, enabling high precision and control for safe and efficient recovery.
Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3, with a proof-of-concept completed.