A Multi-Trip, Free Drop Buoy for the Measurement of Shallow Physical/Optical Properties

Effective, 3 dimensional measurements of phenomena associated with coastal processes such as frontal mixing and tidal flow require spatially separated measurements of several physical and optical variables as well as determination of directional transport in the water column. Phase I work proposes initial development of a rugged, multi-purpose physical/optical sensor platform-transport meter capable of more than 100 autonomous excursions to 200m depth before battery recharge. The vehicle is self-reporting with satellite communication and GPS capability and short-range, two-way communication and relocation via PC based RF modem. The vehicle is planned as being samll enough to be easily launched and retrieved from small boats with limited personnel and quick turn-around. Specifically, Phase I research would entail the generation of specifications and preliminary systems and mechanical designs; a review of the options available for the communications/data path; a comprehensive survey of commercially available sensor packages; and fabrication of and testing of a prototype buoyancy-change propulsion system.