High Source Level Sparker for Navy Applications

"This proposal is to develop a conceptual design of a sonobuoy with the potential to exceed the source level goal for Navy applications. Phase I will demonstrate sparker technology enhancements that, when combined with previous sparker innovations, willincrease the source level and lead to a low cost sonobuoy in a form factor of 1/3 A size.Phase I will demonstrate both the feasibility of a low cost capacitor technology not yet available commercially that can store three times more energy than current commercial capacitors and a new discharge initiation technique to increaseelectrical-to-acoustic energy conversion efficiency. These Phase I developments will be synergistic with our development of a smaller high voltage switch and transformer and collectively enhance the potential to exceed source level goals and reducesonobuoy cost and size. Phase I includes a conceptual design and the development of a technology roadmap to achieve Navy cost objectives. Thus this Phase I is expected to have a major impact towards providing a sparker source that meets/exceeds NavAirapplication requirements. Anticipated Benefits A successful project will lead to the development of a new low cost sparker module that meets NavAir source level and cost goals. Developments in the proposed Phase I also may provide benefits for other Navy applications, including countermeasures andmine sweeping. Commercially, the new sparker will have use in our ongoing wor