Broadband towed line array with spatial discrimination capabilities
AssigneeThe United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
InventorsKim C. Benjamin, Kenneth M. Walsh
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Abstract
A modular sub-array assembly of a composite towed array includes a multi-chamber support structure with plural discrete chambers, an acoustically absorptive hub formed at a central axis of the multi-chamber support structure, and a sensor element in each of the chambers of the multi-chamber support structure. The multi-chamber support structure is an integrally formed viscoelastic cylindrical housing with an array of radially oriented chambers. Each sensor element is secured within the selected chamber of the multi-chamber support structure and to an outer radial surface of the acoustically absorptive hub by a structural adhesive. Plural sub-array modules may be assembled together to form a single towed array.
Claims18
A modular sensor assembly of a towed array comprising:
- a support structure having opposed upper and lower plates spaced apart by vertical sectioning walls and defining discrete chambers of said support structure;
- an acoustically absorptive hub positioned centrally in said support structure and in communication with said discrete chambers;
- and
- a sensor element secured in a selected chamber of said support structure.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.