Acoustic Array Deployment System and Method
Abstract
An acoustic array deployment system for an underwater vehicle is provided along with a method for carrying out such deployment. An optical fiber-based acoustic array has a first end thereof coupled to a weighted projectile housed onboard the underwater vehicle. A second end of the array is coupled to the underwater vehicle. The acoustic array is maintained in a spooled configuration while the weighted projectile is housed onboard the underwater vehicle. The weighted projectile is forcefully launched from onboard the underwater vehicle in a gravitationally downward direction that is not aligned with the underwater vehicle's direction of travel. As a result, the acoustic array is paid out from its spooled configuration as the weighted projectile is launched and then sinks under its own weight. By establishing the line array's broadside beam in a direction that is away from the vehicle and approximately perpendicular to the vehicle's direction of travel, the relative angular difference between the underwater vehicle and target can be used to glide the vehicle towards the target. (3 figures)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 11, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADD020079
Entities
People
- Anthony A. Ruffa
Organizations
- United States Department of the Navy