Addressing Sensing Capability Gaps Using Economical Profiling Technology

The ability to collect oceanic data quickly, accurately, and economically has a significant impact on the success of commercial, military, and maritime research operations. Requirements and applications for oceanic sensing vary significantly based on the type of information targeted in specific weather patterns, climate regions, and oceanic zones. Boston Engineering’s new sensing technology platform is addressing a breadth of maritime data collection needs by reducing barriers created by high costs and harsh environments.

The following MASED overview highlights how Boston Engineering is applying its maritime sensor platform to address specific needs. MASED – a Multipurpose Atmospheric and Subsurface Expendable Dropsonde – is the first product to collect ocean data during developing hurricanes via multiple submerge-and-surface cycles. The data collected by MASED will allow researchers to better understand, analyze, and forecast hurricanes. Additionally, it will contribute to significant financial and economic benefits for affected hurricane regions.

Cost was a significant consideration in developing this expendable (if desired) product. At costs per profile in the range of hundreds of dollars, MASED will complete a user-specified number of profiles (a minimum of five) over two days. Developed through a National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) SBIR grant, Boston Engineering is providing NOAA’s Aircraft Operations Center with prototypes for field testing.

MASED includes the following technologies and capabilities that are also used throughout the company’s maritime sensing product line:

• Variable Buoyancy System (VBS): Achieves multiple submerged water column profiles through its Variable Buoyancy System (VBS). The ability to change buoyancy allows MASED to make multiple controlled descents to a preprogrammed depth then ascend to the surface to transmit the collected data.
• Modular Software and Operating System: Provides control via microcontroller of IMU, GPS, SATCOM, datalogger, CTD, and other sensors. Enables users to communicate, upgrade, modify, and test systems with ease.
• Sensor Nose (with CTD sensing): Measures water temperature, conductivity, and pressure through the water column profiles and while at the surface. The modular design enables multiple types of sensors to be deployed.
• Electronics and Communications Modules (Satellite Communication with GPS): Missions can be preprogrammed but a sample is that the device collects baseline data on day one, profiles again (multiple times) while the storm passes over, then transmits the data via Iridium to the Iridium satellite constellation, which can then be accessed quickly from anywhere in the world.
• Ruggedized Design: Operates in harsh conditions. MASED is deployed from standard AVAPs launch tubes from aircraft flying up to 45,000 feet. The parachute system automatically detaches when in the water.

Boston Engineering is utilizing MASED’s core technologies to address needs for the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), and the Office of Naval Research (ONR). Figure 2 shows the Boston Engineering product family, into which MASED’s core technologies were incorporated.

The modularity and adaptability of MASED provides a significant advantage to address multiple applications and markets. Boston Engineering can deliver reliable, low-cost products by utilizing the latest technologies, and by applying our expertise in modularizing designs through design for manufacturing and optimization (DFx) best practices (see Table 1).