#United States #New York #Tiburon Subsea #AUV Technology #JETTE System

Tiburon Subsea Inc. Innovates with JETTE Propulsion System

Tiburon Subsea Inc. has reached a significant milestone by receiving a patent for its pioneering JETTE propulsion system designed for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted the company patent number 12,365,432, while applications for foreign patents are still in process. This innovative technology, dubbed the JETTE Vector Control Assemblies, aims to enhance the agility and reliability of existing AUVs and similar subsea drones by introducing advanced retrofit kits.

Enhanced Maneuverability and Control

The JETTE system employs only two custom-designed thrusters that allow underwater drones to execute complex maneuvers such as stopping and hovering, vertical ascents and descents, lateral movements, and even reversing. This breakthrough technology transforms traditional torpedo-shaped AUVs into versatile crafts capable of five-directional movement, significantly benefiting both defense and commercial sectors.

The design permits retrofitting onto existing vehicles through two specialized shrouded pods, each placed at the front and back of the vehicle. These pods utilize vectored jets to instantly redirect water flow, providing full five-degree-of-freedom control while maintaining the hydrodynamic integrity of the vehicle.

Visionary Leadership

Tim Taylor, CEO and Founder of Tiburon Subsea, emphasized the importance of this patent in realizing his vision for the technology. He stated, “This is a momentous time for our company. My vision for this technology has come to fruition and we have reached a pivotal milestone. I firmly believe that our thruster design will alter the current landscape of how we work with AUVs and take AUV technology to the next level.”

Real-World Applications and Future Prospects

The incorporation of the JETTE assembly enables AUVs to conduct delicate operations such as hovering just above the seabed to inspect pipelines or maneuvering sideways along harbor walls, all without the vulnerability associated with external control planes and exposed propellers. This enhanced maneuverability allows for safer and more precise operations in various applications, including mine counter-measure missions, port surveillance, and offshore wind farm surveys.

Tiburon Subsea is currently engaging in conversations with the U.S. Navy, prime defense contractors, and potential investors who recognize the transformative power of the JETTE technology. The response from stakeholders indicates a substantial anticipation around the capabilities this innovative propulsion system can provide, making it a potential game changer in the field.

In summary, the successful patenting of the JETTE propulsion system aligns with Tiburon Subsea’s strategic vision to lead advancements in underwater vehicle technology. As the company prepares to unveil this cutting-edge technology, the industry awaits with eager anticipation for its impact on underwater operations.