Compact Integrated Electric Field Detection System for Underwater Objects

There has been little use of low frequency electric (E-) field sensing in DoD applications to date. E-field sensors can provide detection and characterization information about surface and underwater targets, but are limited in their detection range compared to other methods such as sonar or radar. However the results of our Phase I program confirmed that it is feasible to effectively address DoD needs in the key littoral environment with E-field sensors, and we designed a complete system for integration into an A-size package in Phase II. Under this Phase II.5 program, QFS will bring to bear demonstrated state-of-the-art expertise in capacitive electric field sensors to build a truly next-generation underwater E-field sensing system. The initial stages of the program will further investigate innovative electrodes designed under Phases I and II, plus incorporate a novel ultra low noise pre-amplifier to read out the electrodes. In addition to these basic system elements, the contractor will add advanced capability in data collection and storage. Two complete prototype systems will be built and deployed in a number of different environments for testing.