Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) Sonobuoy

The technology developed under SBIR N07-121 will yield an air deployed, free floating acoustic sensor providing Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) performance in the ocean environment. The final product will conform to the Navy requirements for “A” size sonobuoys. Phase I will show proof of principle for an acoustic sensor and innovative suspension system. The technology will be capable of meeting the packaging and environmental requirements for “A” size sonobuoys. Phase I will also present a notional concept of a complete ULF sonobuoy based on existing production sonobuoy technology Phase I tasks will include the fo0llowing efforts:: Perform studies to establish the concept feasibility Identify and initiate design of critical components Determine test methods necessary to assess ocean performance Conduct preliminary laboratory testing Devise and document a means to discriminate self-noise from ambient noise Phase II tasks will develop an “A” size over-the-side model and conduct laboratory tests to establish performance parameters