(Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, 1986-05)
Hoyt, Joshua King
The Flying Fish is an autonomous, streamlined, gravity driven
underwater vehicle of high speed (15 knots) vertical excursions to depths
of 6000 meters. This prototype uses short baseline acoustic
interferometry to guide itself to a monochromatic acoustic beacon at the
surface. Phase difference measurements made on two orthogonal axes are
used to deduce the relative bearing to the beacon. An autopilot uses
this information to actuate control surfaces and correct vehicle
attitude. This thesis describes the oceanographic context in which the
vehicle will be used, translates the scientific mission into a set of
coherent engineering specifications, describes a prototype design that
meets these specifications, and demonstrates proof-of-concept with a
series of sea trials. Some recommendations are made for future
refinements.
