Proteus is the first full size WAM-V - Wave Adaptive Modular Vessel - a new class of watercraft based on a patented technology that delivers a radically new seagoing experience.
Wave AdaptiveUnlike conventional boats, the hulls of a WAM-V conform to the surface of the water. A WAM-V does not push, slap or pierce the waves. She utilizes flexibility to adapt her structure and shape to the water surface. Instead of forcing the water to conform to the hull, she gives and adjusts; she "dances" with the waves.
A superstructure is flexibly connected to specially designed inflatable pontoons called
sponsons by several components that actually move in relation to one another. A WAM-V has springs, shock absorbers and ball joints to articulate the vessel and mitigate stresses to structure, payload and crew. Two engine pods, containing the propulsion and ancillary systems, are fastened to the hulls with special hinges that keep the propellers in the water at all times.
ModularThe payload module on a WAM-V can be switched with a different one in less than an hour, transforming the WAM-V into another vessel for a different use. Some examples of possible payload modules include:
luxury cabin for twosimple cruising accommodations for up to six passengerstwelve passenger transportscuba diving platformlab for collection and on site analysis of specimenoceanographic equipment deployeremergency response unitsurveillance stationIn most versions, the payload module is a self-contained craft that can lower to the surface, detach and operate under its own power.
A full size 100-foot WAM-V with 12 tons full load and 2,000 gallons of fuel aboard, Proteus has ocean crossings and long-range mission capabilities of up to 5,000 miles. Once she has reached her destination, her low draft (8 inches forward and 16 inches aft, at half load) allows operations in river deltas, shallow littoral waters and lagoons.
Users with limited experience can learn to pilot her quickly because she has the responsiveness and maneuverability of a small powerboat.
The invention and original design is by
Ugo Conti, Ph.D., D. Eng. and it was co-designed by
Jim Antrim of
Antrim Associates, Naval Architects.
Environmentally FriendlyThe WAM-V technology is environmentally friendly by its very nature and design. In spite of the large size necessary to negotiate the open ocean, the WAM-V produces a minimum wake. Being ultra light, its anchors are those of a much smaller vessel, thus decreasing disruption to the ocean floor. Fuel consumption is significantly less than that of other vessels with comparable characteristics. The WAM-V, with her light weight, very low draft and soft hulls, is kind and forgiving to everything she comes in contact with.
WAM-V is a Trade Mark of Marine Advanced Research, Inc., a privately held California corporation.
Copyright 2003-2007 Azlan Adnan Legal Notice
