The Phase I program is directed at defining a buoy configuration that will capture the improved signal-to-noise ratios of surface or near-surface targets-of-interest when the acoustic sensor is located below the critical depth and as close to the ocean bottom as possible, capitalizing on the Reliable Acoustic Path. The overall buoy configuration options include a free-floating buoy and a buoy with an on-the-bottom sensor subsystem. In addition, the Phase I effort will include optimizing each subsystem and establishing a reliable packaging and deployment approach. Critical subsystems being optimized include the vector acoustic sensor and the subsurface-to-surface data link. Compatibility with the new proposed sonobuoy RF link utilizing a CPGFSK (Continuous Phase Gaussian Frequency Shift Keying) waveform is also included.
Benefit: The overall commercial market need for a Deep Vector Sensor System Sonobuoy is considered to be substantial. It could be beneficial to researchers engaged in acoustic sub-bottom profiling to characterize sedimentation, silt depositions and ocean bottom structure. Other possible applications could include acoustic propagation studies, marine mammal detection and other tracking applications. The direct DoD benefit would be to enhance the overall Anti-submarine Warfare (ASW) mission.
Keywords: vector sensor, vector sensor, Sonobuoy, reliable acoustic path, Deep Ocean
