SEA-LOG A Sustainably Energized, Adaptive, Littoral Ocean Grid Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Topic No.: N05-076 Topic Title: SEA-LOG A Sustainably Energized, Adaptive, Littoral Ocean Grid Proposal No.: N051-076-0925 Firm: Planning Systems Inc. 12030 Sunrise Valley Drive Suite 400, Reston Plaza I Reston, Virginia 20191-3453 Contact: Donald Delbalzo Phone: (985) 649-7252 Web Site: www.plansys.com Abstract: We propose a distributed underwater sensor grid for covert and persistent monitoring and environmental characterization of ocean physical properties, ambient noise, and the seabed in littoral regions. Each node consists of a single-point, catenary moored sub-surface float that harvests wave energy, providing power for sensors, data processing, communication, and horizontal and vertical mobility, enabling the float to avoid hazards and accidental detection. This concept embodies several revolutionary advances: a silent inductive generator to convert sub-surface wave energy to electric power; vertical mobility using a simpler buoyancy engine than existing gliders and drifters; horizontal mobility using synthetic jet or ionic polymer actuators; and using noise from passing ships to characterize seafloor properties. Benefits: This research will develop and evaluate an underwater, self-sustaining, distributed sensor grid, containing networked environmental and acoustic sensors, with a communications link into the Naval tactical system through Seaweb. With some modification, this concept could be adapted to support homeland security (e.g., port and harbor entrance monitoring) and environmental resource protection (e.g., fisheries on the outer continental shelf). Each of the above-named advances would have significant application in oceanographic and earth science instrumentation. Return