Miniaturized, low-cost heading sensor for towed array applications

Current magnetometer-based heading sensors fielded for towed sonar arrays set stringent performances requirements but come at a larger diameter and significant cost. Emerging sonar technology is driving the towed array to smaller diameters and future US Navy programs are moving in this direction. Specifically, 0.5-inch diameter heading sensors at or below 5-inches in length meeting substantially similar performance requirements with a lower cost are being demanded. We propose leveraging on-going IR&D programs and past experience to miniaturize a completely redesigned ‘strapdown’ sensor that will ultimately fit into the 0.5-inch package and meet performance and environmental operation specifications during the Phase II program. To ensure this goal, our Phase I effort will analyze the tolerance contributions of each component and subsystem element to determine practical limits and establish guidelines for components that will sense the magnetic field and attitude of the heading sensor. With tolerances established, we will determine appropriate experimental tests and extensively long-term test target components over thermal cycling extremes while continuously sampling operation to ensure these components maintain operation within the established tolerances. This data will support validation of proprietary signal correction techniques and algorithms that stabilize sensor components.