Compact, Lightweight Magnetic Sensor for Small Unmanned Undersea Vehicles (UUV)

The objective of our Phase II work is to develop and demonstrate the Magnetic Underwater Mine (MAGNUM) confirmation sensor and associated integrated UUV sensor module. In the Phase I project, Sky Research and Geometrics explored the use of Micro-Fabricated Atomic Magnetometers (MFAM) technology to meet the Navy’s needs. The prospective MFAM sensor, data acquisition, and processing module have been designed to optimize the key performance factors of the integrated UUV system. Using the results from the success of Phase I, we propose to further develop the technology. Our focus will be on meeting both the performance specifications for sensing and providing a robust integrated solution under demanding operational conditions using a staged approach of graduated development, testing, and demonstrations. During the 12 month Base Effort, a fully functional MAGNUM sensing unit will be developed and tested for an integrated flooded compartment. The first Option period will lead to a fully-integrated module ready for integration with the Mk 18 MOD 1 UUV. In the second Option period, we will perform a submerged prove-out of the integrated sensing capability and document the system design, interface control, and suggested design enhancements based on analysis of the capabilities and limitations in acceptance tests.