Improved Array Vibration Isolation and Coupler Development

"The US Navy's current inventory of towed arrays are longer, smaller in diameter, can be towed faster, and have better acoustic performance than towed arrays used by the rest of the worlds Navies. However, the operational advantages of this acousticsuperiority are only realized if the towed array system is available to support the mission requirements. The primary focus of this SBIR is to improve the operational availability (Ao) of the towed arrays currently in the US Navy's inventory. Based onthe conclusions of the Phase 1 contract two design improvements are to be developed, prototyped and evaluated: 1) Vibration Isolating Tow Cable (VITC), and 2) Improved Array Coupler. The VITC integrates the functions of the Vibration Isolation Modules andthe tow cable to obtain a single assembly that serves both purposes. The benefits are improved vibration attenuation performance, lower system cost and higher reliability. The Improved Array Coupler distributes the functions performed by the coupler andthus reduces the rigid body length of that critical component. The benefits are improved array reliability and lower recurring cost. Both of these products have "Dual Use" applications to the seismic industry, creating a larger market and furtherreducing production costs.BENEFITS: The anticipated benefits are improved towed array system robustness and reliability, better performance, and lower system-level costs with minimal design changes