AutoNaut is 5 metres overall length, is propelled predominantly by wave energy and so moves slowly (1-3 knots). It has a steering system that can be integrated into a command and control system. An Auxiliary Thruster is fitted, designed to provide propulsion in calm conditions, to ‘get out of trouble’, and to maneuver away from a slipway.
The AutoNaut is wave propelled and performs almost equally well on all headings including directly into wind and waves. It has zero emissions, and can roam the oceans for very long periods, transmitting data via satellite to shore when a suitable command and control system has been integrated. This extreme endurance is coupled with a unique and elegant solution to the speed/payload/power balance for unmanned surface vessels (USVs). Hull motions in waves are converted directly and silently into propulsive thrust. This gives speeds of up to 3 knots for a 5m vessel. AutoNaut patented wave propulsion technology is completely scalable, so larger boats with more capacity and power can be tailored to customer requirements – as can smaller boats. There are few moving parts and the control and mission systems operate with minimal electrical power. Batteries store electrical energy which is generated from an array of PV solar panels fitted across the deck of the vessel. AutoNaut can be deployed and recovered either from a support boat or a slipway.

The hull is robustly constructed from composites and is intended to withstand operations at sea for many months without any physical human intervention. It incorporates watertight sub-divisions and in-built buoyancy. Compartments can be independently opened and sealed with a watertight hatch to gain access to the internal equipment and mission system. The hull is fitted with a metal hoop at the bow and at the stern which has undergone functional element analysis and is rated for lifting and towing.

The hull is shaped and ballasted to harvest as much energy as possible from the pitching and rolling motion in waves. Two hydrofoils are mounted horizontally below the keel at both ends of the hull. The foils are located on struts bolted to the hull. The foils and struts may be detached from the hull for transport. The foils and their springs are carefully balanced to deliver the propulsion thrust and no adjustments are necessary.

• Type: The 5 m AutoNaut is fitted with four 12 volt 70Ah batteries. It may be fitted with other batteries and converters for payload and steering needs.
• Size: The main batteries are a simple valve-regulated lead-gel model because weight is useful for ballasting the hull. If battery replacement is required for any reason consult AutoNaut Ltd for advice. In normal use, this type of battery can be considered sealed. However, the battery compartment is vented via Gore waterproof vents in the deck which will allow the escape of hydrogen as a product of charging, as well as by the bilge pump which is self-priming and pumps air/gas out of the compartment when run dry. The batteries are fitted near to the centre of the vessel. On completion of a mission, the battery compartment hatch should be removed to allow hydrogen gas to vent before switching any on-board systems.