Uncertainty, Stress and Decision Simulation

The objective for this SBIR program is to develop and demonstrateone or more integrated sensor devices that will measure,simultaneously and at the same location, temperature, electricalconductivity, and depth (via a MEMS pressure transducer). Weemploy a sensor technology that, by design, can be mass-producedat low cost, yet achieves performance that is the same orsuperior to that currently available . The same basic sensordesign will be capable of supporting a variety of deploymentstrategies, from numerous platforms, with the initial emphasisbeing on expendable devices. In Phase I, Aret¿ developed aprototype oceanographic conductivity and temperature sensorsystem, a breadboard circuit, a brass-board, circuit, and aprototype power circuit. The design was accomplished with low-cost, simplicity, and high-performance as the main drivers. Themulti-layer ceramic circuit card, which is the platform for bothsensors and electronics, was prototyped. For Phase II, Aret¿ willconcentrate on the development of a multi-chip-module (MCM) andintegrate a MEMS-technology pressure transducer on the sensorsubstrate. We will manufacture a small number of prototypesensors and test them at sea. Options are included to broaden themeasurement capability beyond the expendable device.