Upper Ocean Autonomous Sampling Equipment
Abstract
We propose to procure two Liquid Robotics SV3 hybrid Wave Glider unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for purposes of air-sea interaction studies in extreme sea states, and for use as a test platform for the development of autonomous behavior. We will develop the platforms in an Extreme Sea State (ESS) configuration to survive high sea states and provide persistent sampling on both sides of the air-sea interface. The USVs will be equipped with instrumentation to accurately measure the directional wave spectrum of surface gravity waves and near-surface meteorological properties, leveraging previously funded development efforts to develop low-cost, accurate sensors that are robust for operation in the marine environment. An Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) and Conductivity/Temperature sensor will provide continuous upper ocean measurements of the dynamic response to wind forcing, the associated inertial response, and the impacts to upper ocean shear. The proposed suite of instrumentation will provide a capability to sample both sides of the Marine Atmospheric Boundary Layer (MABL) persistently in both deep water and coastal settings circumventing the heavy logistics and cost burdens associated with ocean moorings. The mobility provided by the SV3 USV is also well suited for adaptively sampling oceanic features including fronts, eddies, and internal waves. The equipment will be used in a wide range of basic scientific studies of Naval interest including air-sea interaction and mixing in the surface wave boundary layer; growth of oceans and wave-current interaction; mapping of submesoscale oceanographic features; assessment of ocean response (including inertial) and modulation of near surface shear. As an autonomous testbed, we will use the platform to develop adaptive path planning algorithms that consider measurements and forecasts of ocean surface waves to develop optimal navigation headings that balance the USV???s wave encounter angle with programmed mission objectives and platform dynamics
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 10, 2018
- Source ID
- N000141812343
Entities
People
- Eric Terrill
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of California, San Diego