Low Storage Volume Vertical Array

In response to the Navy's requirement for a low storage volume vertical array, Benthos has identified several approaches which can provide a high degree of vertical directivity and an omnidirectional pattern in the horizontal plane. In shallow water, such an array would be able to detect submerged vessels even in areas where there is a great deal of surface traffic. In deep water, the proposed array can be positioned in the sound channel to detect submerged vessel movements or deliberately activated acoustic signals. Benthos, Inc. has successfully developed miniature, high sensitivity hydrophones for use in small diameter arrays, and has expert knowledge of the tradeoffs between transducer material, noise mitigation, and size. We have proven expertise in small arry construction techniques that assure high reliability. Benthos proposes to use this knowledge and experience to conduct an investigation of materiels, array configurations, and manufacturing techniques resulting in the development of a low-cost, efficiently packaged, highly reliable low storage volume vertical array suitable for the applications identified above.