Components for a Deep Drifting Sonobuoy

Makai proposes to complete a parametric analysis of candidate sonobuoy components for a conceptual deep drifting sonobuoy system. These results will enable the Navy to perform a tradeoff analysis of the sonobuoy system to meet their operational requirements and form-factor constraint. Using Navy-supplied location data, Makai will characterize the ocean environment in the area of operation and use Navy 4D temporal ocean current models as input to a hydro-mechanical numerical model to evaluate the dynamic loads on the different sonobuoy components (especially on the long and thin tether) will be compared to the manufacturer-specified component limits. The drift of single and multi-buoys over 30 days will be observed, as the acoustic coverage is an important metric for the Navy. The goal of this parametric study is to characterize how various component parameters (e.g., tether diameter, sizes, drag, weights, specific gravities): 1) affect individual sonobuoy space and weight; 2) perform against the system 30-day operational requirement and form-factor constraint; and, 3) influence single and multi-buoy geometry and barrier drift.