CURV 3: Characteristics and mission applications
Abstract
The Cable-Controlled Underwater Recovery Vehicle (CURV) program was begun by NOSC for the specific purpose of developing economical systems to recover test ordnance at NOSC's Long Beach and San Clemente Island test ranges. CURV 3 is the latest in this series of tethered, unmanned, remotely controlled vehicles and its present capabilities far exceed the original CURV 1. Originally conceived for use as a search and recovery vehicle, CURV has evolved into a versatile and easily adaptable multipurpose work vehicle capable of performing search and recovery tasks as well as pursuing test, evaluation, exploration, and work projects. Basically, CURV is a composite of integrated subsystems including such items as propulsion, search and navigation, optics, hydraulics, and tools. Because it is unmanned and does not require life support or other complex support systems, CURV is able to perform most undersea tasks more economically and efficiently than maned systems. Also, since it is powered and controlled from the surface, CURV has a continuous, unlimited operating capability. Under emergency conditions, the vehicle can operate to 10,000-foot depths. CURV can be easily transported to any spot in the world. Upon arrival of the vehicle, control van, cable, and support gear can be mounted on a suitable ship of opportunity.
- Publication:
-
NASA STI/Recon Technical Report N
- Pub Date:
- March 1984
- Bibcode:
- 1984STIN...8426819P
- Keywords:
-
- Manipulators;
- Recovery Vehicles;
- Remote Control;
- Underwater Vehicles;
- Buoyancy;
- Control Equipment;
- Electric Power Supplies;
- Hydraulic Equipment;
- Sonar;
- Television Cameras;
- Tetherlines;
- Engineering (General)