AN ANALYSIS OF UNMANNED SURFACE VESSELS TO SUPPORT U.S. COAST GUARD'S SEARCH AND RESCUE MISSIONS
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Authors
Gilbert, George R., III
Subjects
unmanned surface vessels
USV
surface vessels
SAR
USCG
U.S. Coast Guard
USV
surface vessels
SAR
USCG
U.S. Coast Guard
Advisors
Beery, Paul T.
Date of Issue
2024-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Unmanned surface vessels (USVs) have emerged as transformative tools in enhancing maritime operations. There is an opportunity for the United States Coast Guard (USCG) to strategically utilize the capabilities of current and future USVs in specific critical mission sets to serve as a readiness force multiplier. This research investigates the potential integration of USVs into the USCG’s Search and Rescue (SAR) mission set. System engineering concepts were used to model a generic SAR response. The expanding square search pattern was modeled and simulated to analyze the performance of a USV searching for a distressed mariner. Search area size, detection range, probability of detection (POD), and vessel speed were factors of interest that were subjected to experimental manipulation in order to gain data. Regression analysis showed that an increased detection range, increased vessel speed, and the product of these two interactions were the primary factors that were responsible for the decreases in detection time. Comparing the least optimal and the most optimal configurations tested, a reduction of 3 hours and 13 hours was observed. Then, contour plots were used to illustrate the required configurations based on constraining mission time requirements. Finally, recommendations are made to guide future research and operational deployment strategies that may help to foster a safer and more efficient approach to the future of search and rescue missions.
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Thesis
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Distribution Statement
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.