Nix Usv Platform For Precision Track And Trail Of Uuv Platforms

This paper will discuss development work for a Navy unmanned surface vehicle called NIX for its use in multi-platform collaborative autonomy for S&T development efforts. The NIX platform is an 80 long by 40 wide M-Hull design. The M-Hull concept includes two full-length slats in its design which provides enhanced inherent tracking stability. Currently, the NIX is being outfitted with an optical imaging receiver to support high-resolution bottom imaging when paired with an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) that is outfitted with a laser illuminator. Together, the NIX and the UUV will form a complete bistatic laser imaging system. The bistatic imaging architecture is optimized for use in multi-platform collaborative autonomy. Precision tracking within a specific conical volume of the UUV is critical for optimal performance of the imaging systen.