DURIP: Deep Lagrangian Floats with Acoustic Tracking for Ocean Interior Observations
Abstract
Approved for Public ReleaseThis DURIP aims to enhance the operational capabilities of two APL/UW Lagrangian Mixing Floats (MLFs). The objectives are to conduct necessary upgrades to extend their operational depth to 500 m with a full suite of instrumentation and outfit them for acoustic tracking and communication within a broader distributed sensor network. The proposed effort is in support of a research project #Lagrangian Float Observations along Interior Stirring Trajectories# (D#Asaro & Shcherbina, University of Washington) currently proposed to the ONR through the Researching Interior Ocean Trajectories Departmental Research Initiative (RIOT DRI). RIOT DRI (FY24 # FY28) will investigate submesoscale (1#10 km) dynamics in the interior ocean. This initiative will leverage the latest autonomous and Lagrangian instrumentation and develop novel approaches to observing deep circulation features. The two APL/UW Lagrangian Mixing Floats are an important component of the proposed RIOT field program, serving as a primary focal point within a diverse multiplatform autonomous array. This DURIP is to conduct a significant upgrade of the MLF system for their proposed RIOT mission. To ensure sustained uninterrupted water-following observations of interior submesoscale dynamics, RIOT MLFs will require an operational depth rating of 500m. This upgrade will require changes in the float#s buoyancy engine, the hull structure, scientific payload, and control algorithms. The underwater localization of the RIOT array will be facilitated by a novel decentralized peer-to-peertracking and communication acoustic network. To integrate MLFs into this network, the floats will need to be equipped with 10 kHz acoustic modems and hydrophones. Additionally, the essential control, communication, and localization algorithms will need to be developed to ensure the seamless operation of the network.The new #Deep Acoustic MLF# design will become a standard option in the APL/UWfloat lineup. This development will dramatically boost our capacity to provide enhanced research capabilities for future ONR projects in a wider range of environments and mission requirements.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Dec 14, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142512066
Entities
People
- Eric Dasaro
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Washington