IMWTS26 US tu 1015

Introduction to Greenc and Technology Solutions

Overview of Greenc

• Ben Kinnaman introduces himself as the founder and CEO of Greenc, discussing the purpose of his presentation on technology solutions for subc threats.

• Founded in 2006, Greenc began commercializing its technologies in 2017, with facilities across the US including Vermont, Massachusetts, Florida, and San Diego.

Company Achievements

• The company has a workforce of about 85 staff and has deployed software systems for over 5,000 systems globally since commercialization.

• Greenc supports three US Department of Defense (DoD) programs and focuses on reacquisition to threat neutralization using expeditionary robotics in Mine Countermeasures (MCM).

Development of Seabed Robotics

Identifying Gaps in Technology

• Five years ago, Greenc invested in seabed robotics to address a gap concerning unmanned assets capable of operating effectively at the seabed level.

• This capability allows operations in shallow waters and surf zones for tasks such as dealing with seabed mines.

Evolution of Capabilities

• Initially starting with basic remote control software for vehicles, capabilities have expanded through various platforms incorporating AI/ML for target detection and classification.

• Over $15 million has been invested by the DoD into Green Sea software technology aimed at enhancing unmanned MCM operations.

Remote Operations Center

Operational Insights

• A picture from the Plymouth Rock remote operations center shows operators managing robots remotely to service ships across different locations like Miami and Galveston.

• The technology developed under SBIR funding aims to enhance safety and efficiency during critical missions while utilizing centralized expertise.

EOD Workspace Software Functionality

Integration with Battle Space Management Systems

• EOD workspace integrates with various platforms to manage contacts either through real-time data or contact lists pulled down from battle space management systems.

• It provides essential functionalities such as autonomy support, feature detection, and guidance throughout MCM mission phases.

Utilization of ROV Technology

ROV Applications

• The Defender ROV is utilized within the Messor program; it automates reacquisition processes while providing obstacle avoidance features during mine engagements.

Bottom Mine Engagement Strategy

• A new approach using Autonomous Underwater Ground Vehicles (AUGVs), which self-deploy directly onto the seafloor without needing complex mid-water maneuvers.

Advantages of AUGVs

Operational Efficiency

• AUGVs can operate effectively in high currents (4–6 knots), carry significant payload capacities (over 100 pounds), and maintain long operational durations (up to 10 hours).

Communication Methods

• These vehicles utilize multiple communication methods: radio buoys for surface communication or tactical fiber packs for underwater command/control.

Launching Mechanisms

Robust Deployment Features

• AUGVs are designed for flexible deployment from various platforms; they can self-release from launch mechanisms regardless of height or conditions upon deployment.

Autonomous Functions During Missions

Mission Execution Capabilities

Once deployed on the seafloor, AUGVs execute autonomous functions similar to ROV missions but benefit from enhanced stability against environmental factors like current drag.

Post-Mission Analysis

• All mission data collected by AUGVs can be processed into actionable insights that integrate back into battle space management systems post-mission.

Multiplicative Sorty Capability

Enhanced Deployment Strategies

• Deploying multiple AUGVs simultaneously increases operational capacity significantly compared to traditional single robot deployments.

Diverse Robot Configurations

Addressing Varied Threat Scenarios

• Different types of robots will be necessary depending on specific mission requirements such as clearance missions or varying environmental conditions encountered during operations.

Conclusion & Q&A Session

Summary & Audience Interaction

• Kinnaman wraps up his presentation emphasizing a comprehensive technology platform capable of addressing diverse MCM challenges before opening up for audience questions.