Accurate Flow-Through Conductivity Sensor for Autonomous Systems

UUVs have become increasingly important tools in the collection of environmental data. Their unique ability to operate independent of surface vessel conditions allows oceanographic seawater measurements when traditional means is not possible. Historically sensor packages for UUVs have been based on adaptions of ship deployed equipment. Recent development in sensors, such as the Hybrid Flow Through Conductivity sensor developed under prior Navy STTR supported programs are still being field evaluated, and continue to look to have an impact on improving CTD persistence especially in the UUV, and Float applications. However, while such evaluations are ongoing, this topic offers the opportunity to look industrial developments which can be applied to those traditional sensors and new industrial sensors and their application to oceanographich measures. These new sensors can change sensor deployment strategies such that advances in long term stability and deployment platform persistence can be attained. Single use disposable sensors have the potential to eliminate effects of biological growth degradation of conductivity measurement performance. Additionally, new technologies applied to existing sensors can dramatically reduce cost. The team includes two groups with demonstrated ability to deliver innovation solutions to oceanographic physical property of seawater measurements.