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Compact Control Module for Short Towed Arrays
Navy SBIR FY2010.2
| Sol No.: |
Navy SBIR FY2010.2 |
| Topic No.: |
N102-171 |
| Topic Title: |
Compact Control Module for Short Towed Arrays |
| Proposal No.: |
N102-171-0767 |
| Firm: |
LBI, INC.
973 NORTH ROAD
GROTON, Connecticut 06340 |
| Contact: |
Peter Legnos |
| Phone: |
(860) 446-8058 |
| Web Site: |
[email protected] |
| Abstract: |
A Towed Array Control Module (TACM) will be developed to control the configuration of single and multi-line towed arrays by applying the appropriate force vector at the tail end, while reducing drag. The TACM is a streamlined module with some maneuvering ability of its own that can adjust the array's shape so it remains effective during towing vehicle maneuvers and current shears, as knowing the shape of the array is critical to interpreting its results. The TACM uses buoyancy and hydrodynamic lift, steering and drag forces to position itself and produce the proper tension in the array. Innovative features are an active control system to keep the array in the optimum shape, and position and tension sensors to provide feedback to the control system. An Array Configuration Algorithm will provide the estimated shape of the array to the control system on the towing vehicle to ensure optimum shape of the array. Multi-line arrays (MLTA) can be towed from the same vehicle, as judicious use of the TACMs will enhance performance, facilitate deployment and reduce entanglement. Array gain will be the primary measure used to evaluate the effectiveness of the array configurations that can be achieved using the TACM. |
| Benefits: |
The performance of towed arrays will be enhanced by more effective control of the array shape. Multi-line arrays can be towed from the same vehicle due to more effective control of their configuration, thereby increasing effectiveness, facilitating deployment and reducing the potential for entanglement. Commercial applications are for arrays used in geophysical survey. Placement and control of deepwater moorings such as oceanographic thermistors can be facilitated using the TACM. |
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