Date of Award

5-4-2026

Degree Type

Capstone Project

First Advisor

Professor Bahram Nassersharif

Abstract

This project, conducted in collaboration with the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC), focuses on the design and development of a seafloor-resident system capable of autonomously deploying multiple unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) capsules. The primary objective was to create a low-cost, reliable, and negatively buoyant launcher that can store, select, and deploy capsules in a controlled sequence while maintaining stability and ensuring effective communication from a remote control station.

The final design consists of a tripod-style launcher integrating three main subsystems: a rotating top cap for capsule selection, a cylindrical holding drum for multi-capsule storage, and a bottom electronics and ballast cage to provide stability and house control components. A communication buoy system relays commands between the operator and the seafloor device, supporting both wired and future wireless communication approaches.

Key accomplishments include the successful development of a proof-of-concept prototype, validation of the gear-driven indexing mechanism, and demonstration of reliable command transmission using an Ethernet-based communication chain. Testing confirmed that the deployment timing meets the required 1–3 minute delay window, and that the overall system concept is mechanically feasible and functionally viable.

Design iteration played a critical role in meeting project objectives. Initial testing was partially successful, revealing buoyancy and stability issues. While the motors and wiring achieved waterproofing requirements, the capsule holder required modification to allow water ingress and improved buoyancy control. Additional design refinements—specifically the integration of machined metal ballast plates—successfully achieved negative buoyancy. Further improvements to the communication buoy, including added internal ballast and an intermediary line weight, enhanced system stability under realistic conditions. These iterative changes demonstrate a systematic engineering approach to problem-solving and performance optimization.

The design process incorporated customer requirements, engineering specifications, and Quality Function Deployment (QFD) analysis to guide concept selection and trade-offs. Background research and prior art review confirmed a gap in low-cost, single-use, multi-capsule seafloor deployment systems, validating the project’s relevance and innovation.

Overall, the project met its core objectives by delivering a functional and validated design concept supported by analytical modeling and experimental testing. The resulting system provides a scalable foundation for future development, including full-scale fabrication, enhanced waterproofing, and extended field testing, positioning it as a viable solution for autonomous subsea deployment applications.

Comments

Company Sponsor: Naval Underwater Warfare Center

Sponsor Representative: Jake Badick

Document Reference: URI-MCE-2026-FDR-002

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