Benthic Lander for Accurate Detection of Electromagnetic Signatures (BLADES)

Physical Sciences (PSI) will develop an underwater electromagnetic (UEM) sensor package that includes vector magnetometry and electrometry (DC-50 Hz bandwidth) and internal datalogging. The self-contained sensor package or benthic lander will fit within the SWaP requirements of a 70î by 6.5î diameter cylinder and include actuating features that maintain stability on the ocean floor. PSI has narrowed mechanical designs for the lander down to three workable concepts and will conduct modelling and simulation of each configuration to optimize the system for maximum stability under a range of currents and sea-floor surfaces. PSI will conduct experimental studies on the compatibility and effects of different materials from which the lander will be constructed and use that information along with the stability modelling to predict performance. An inertial measurement unit (IMU), incorporated into the sensor package will make estimates of any residual motion and use that information to null out heading errors of the carbon-fiber electrometer and magneto-resistive magnetometer.ÝPSIís approach to low power datalogging and power conversion will enable the unit to operate for a 7 day mission on a set of alkaline or rechargeable nickel-metal-hydride batteries and avoid lengthy certification processes. The on-board ultra-low-power microcontroller is programmable to collect data during user-specified windows. ÝTo effect recovery, the sensor package will include an acoustic transponder that will signal the lander to drop 10% of its mass, such that it floats slightly proud of the ocean surface. ÝÝPSI also considers that the instrumentation system may be equipped with long range RF modems or satellite communications and that capability combined with passive acoustic sensors or acoustic vector sensors will enable the ability for the Lander to monitor, trigger and rise to the surface to transmit data following a detection event. Ý