Tech. Development of Fiber Optic Moorings for Surface Communication Buoys

Makai proposes to address the small communications buoy mooring problem by developing a technology for small diameter fiber optic cable compliance. Makai’s solution will solve the issue of how a small diameter fiber optic cable can be used for the mooring of small retractable buoys and provide the needed compliance to protect the delicate optical fiber in sea state 3 or 4 conditions. The compliance system will be developed under this SBIR to limit optical attenuation to provide reliable communications. Makai’s Linear Compliance Mechanism (LinCoM) has a bungee within a section of coiled fiber optic cable that extends and uncoils as force is applied to the buoy. Makai will leverage our past experience with fiber optic cable management system development throughout this effort. Through the Phase II effort, Makai will develop a fully functional prototype, and test it on a representative buoy.