N231-032 - Launchable Buoyancy Glider Configurable for Varying Payloads

The US Navy is searching for a cost effective and novel solution for launchable mini-glider sensor platforms which can be of three standard size form factors. The Great Lakes Sound & Vibration, Inc. (GLSV) proposed glider will have the ability to be launched from the deck of various surface vessels and be able to survive a 48-hour service life in up to sea state 6 (SS 6) conditions. The GLSV glider will be able to actively maintain position, through either modulated buoyancy or positive propulsion, within the water column to measure sound speed profile (SSP) and be able to rise to the surface at a minimum of every 6 hours to transmit collected environmental data. Additional payload capability overhead will be incorporate into the GLSV design so that it may be used in a variety of missions throughout its lifecycle. The glider’s depth target is dependent on the ability to collect the necessary information within the thermoclines introduced by weather conditions or the varying seasons throughout the year. The glider will possess the capability to transmit collected data to either satellites or manned platforms conducting Undersea Warfare (USW). Top performance attributes of the system will be focused on collecting the appropriate data and most importantly the communication interaction from the glider via satellite, radio frequency, and acoustic emissions. GLSV is well positioned to help the US Navy develop a mission ready system for a launchable device meeting all of the requirements outlined within solicitation N231-032. GLSV is currently in the prototype testing phase of a positive buoyancy system utilized on Acoustic Device Countermeasures (ADC) for the US Navy. This GLSV developed technology can be scaled as needed to meet the design requirements. GLSV’s proposed glider device will iterate off of our existing ADC concept, while leveraging the experience gained to provide a robust solution to the US Navy. GLSV will incorporate all relevant components in the baseline model. Integrated components within the device include but are not limited to the battery, valves, high pressure gas cylinder, depth sensor, SSP, controller, and communication hardware. GLSV will team with Michigan Tech Research Institute (MTRI) for this Phase I effort to develop and design a communications system tailored to the glider requirements. MTRI is experienced in both hardware and simulation development and will help GLSV to develop a prototype ready design. Using established oceanographic calculations, GLSV will integrate a COTS sensor suite to determine the SSP using measured temperature, salinity, and pressure data profiles collected from inside the water column. GLSV will source all materials needed for fabrication and assembly of the glider during the Phase I effort. By sourcing components during the Phase I option, GLSV will be prepared to order materials for prototyping at the kickoff of Phase II.