Abstract: Embodiments described herein provide a highly reliable UUV recovery systems and methods that utilize multiple independent release mechanisms that can detach a load and allow the UUV to float to the surface of the water. One embodiment is a recovery system for a UUV. The recovery system includes a detachable load that renders the UUV neutrally buoyant in water. The recovery system further includes a plurality of release mechanisms that detach the load to render the UUV positively buoyant in the water. The release mechanisms include a first, second, and third release mechanism. The first release mechanism detaches the load in response to a command signal. The second release mechanism detaches the load in response to the UUV being submerged in the water beyond a threshold time. The third release mechanism detaches the load in response to the UUV exceeding a maximum depth in the water.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein provide a highly reliable UUV recovery systems and methods that utilize multiple independent release mechanisms that can detach a load and allow the UUV to float to the surface of the water. One embodiment is a recovery system for a UUV. The recovery system includes a detachable load that renders the UUV neutrally buoyant in water. The recovery system further includes a plurality of release mechanisms that detach the load to render the UUV positively buoyant in the water. The release mechanisms include a first, second, and third release mechanism. The first release mechanism detaches the load in response to a command signal. The second release mechanism detaches the load in response to the UUV being submerged in the water beyond a threshold time. The third release mechanism detaches the load in response to the UUV exceeding a maximum depth in the water.