Technology Associates, Inc. (TAI) proposal is for development of a TAI modular boat ramp concept (TAI-MBR) for Launch and Recovery (L&R) of watercraft from the Joint High Speed Vessel's (JHSV) stern. The TAI-MBR will rapidly L&R various manned and unmanned watercraft in less than 15 minutes and in sea state 3 (SS3) with wave heights of 3 to 5 ft. It will not rely on the use of the cargo crane for L&R, and will allow the crew to remain onboard the watercraft during the L&R process. It is based on proven methods used in the offshore industry. The maturation of this concept has wide military and commercial application.
Benefit: This TAI MBR concept could be applied anywhere a boat needs to be launched and there is no ramp. This could be off a variety of vessels, off the shore, or off a pier. It can be applied to commercial and naval ships, e.g. a smaller version for launch of rescue boats. Different sizes can be developed for different watercraft, and for different structural configurations to launch from. The MBR could also be useful in adapting to tidal variations, especially in areas of the world where the tidal variation is high. A heave compensated system can be developed for launching boats at higher sea states. Army boats could be launched out of trucks or similar land based vehicles.
Keywords: Sea State 3 Capable, Sea State 3 Capable, self leveling, Launch & Retrieval, Auxiliary Ramp, Modular, Over-The Road Transportable, JHSV, Modular boat ramp
