Wave Energy MicroBuoy for Sensor Data Communications and Other Payloads

In the Phase I program, Mikros and subcontractor Ocean Power Technologies (OPT) demonstrated through modeling and ocean testing an Energy Harvesting (EH) buoy design to provide a very low power requirement of 4 mW. In the proposed Phase II program, Mikros and OPT will develop and ocean-test a prototype EH “MicroBuoy” for use as a communications relay for a bottom-mounted acoustic sensor. The MicroBuoy will provide at least 5 W of continuous power and will be fabricated in a C-size sonobuoy form factor (9 in. diameter, 60 in. length). The Phase II program will apply hydrodynamic modeling tools for system design and optimization, perform technical trade-off studies and investigate system application/payload requirements. Mikros will design and develop a nominal payload package for the prototype buoy, including sensor data emulation, buoy telemetry and RF communication capabilities. A preliminary ocean test of the prototype system will be conducted off the New Jersey coast.