Wave Glider

Oceans cover most of Earth’s surface with an average depth of more than two miles. Placing observation equipment anywhere in this vast area is difficult and expensive, yet the oceans are as essential to humanity as the air we breathe. Understanding them requires detailed observation. Liquid Robotics’ patented Wave Glider technology* provides a new way to achieve this understanding.  

 

A unique two-part architecture and wing system directly converts wave motion into thrust.    Solar panels provide electricity for sensor payloads. By continuously harvesting energy from the environment, Wave Gliders are able to travel long distances, hold station, and patrol vast areas without ever needing to refuel.  This means Wave Gliders can travel to a distant area, collect data, and return for maintenance without ever requiring a ship to leave port.  

                                                 *US patent 7,371,136

New York Times
Published February 23, 2009

 

Wave-Powered Monitor Is Moving Beyond Listening to Whales by Thayer Walker

 

Reuters

Robots Unite: Rob Muir reports. Aug 14 - From huge government contractors to tiny start-ups, the world of unmanned vehicle technology comes together in Washington DC for its annual conference and exhibition.

 

Video, Liquid Robotics coverage begins at time 1:26  

 

KQED (NPR) Radio Segment: “Data on Climate Change, Gliding on a Wave" 

 

Wave Glider technology has been in development since 2005. Our vehicles have completed tens of thousands of miles of operation. Product development began in 2007, and orders are currently being delivered to customers. 

 
The Wave Glider is a configurable platform designed to support a wide variety of sensor payloads.
It can keep station or travel from point to point. Data is transmitted to shore via satellite, and the continuous
surface presence means data can be delivered as it is collected. 
 
Customers can install their own payloads, or Liquid Robotics can integrate them. Payload power is provided
by two solar panels, lithium ion batteries and our charge optimization system. Also included with the Wave
Glider is our core navigation, communication and control module.