DEVELOP Competition:

Develop a Marine Energy Powered System

The theme of the DEVELOP Competition is “Buoys and Autonomous Systems” and was informed by the DISCOVER Competition. This theme includes, but is not limited to, ideas that could use marine energy to increase platform longevity, energy availability, or other similar performance characteristics.

This competition has challenged competitors to design, build and test their experimental wave-powered ocean observing prototypes at the Naval Surface Warfare Center’s facility in Carderock, Maryland. These early-stage devices were not meant to be mature systems but demonstrate basic functionality and potential for refinement.

During the SPLASH-C Contest, competitors will continue to mature their wave-powered ocean observing prototypes. The final contest aims to provide a pathway for continued technology development through direct laboratory mentorship for competitors and a testing campaign customized to competitor needs.

While this technology is still in the early stages of development, the prototypes developed during this competition could help identify future research opportunities for marine energy-powered ocean observing platforms.

Past engagement in the DISCOVER competition was not required for participation in the DEVELOP Competition.

Important DEVELOP Competition Dates

DESIGN Contest Key Dates

• Submission Open: October 19, 2020
• Submission Close: February 16, 2021
• Winner Announcement & Awards: April 19, 2021

BUILD Contest Key Dates

• Submission Open: April 2021
• Tank Testing: June 2022
• Awards: August 2022

SPLASH-C Contest Key Dates

• TEAMER Request for Technical Support Due: November 4, 2022
• TEAMER Access Period: February 2023–November 2023
• Final Submissions Due: January 2024
• Awards: February 2024