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Sonobuoy – Electronic Function Selector (EFS) Replacement
Title: Principal Engineer
Phone: (860) 445-0348
Email: jtyler@seacorp.com
Title: President
Phone: (401) 847-2260
Email: dmiller@seacorp.com
Present sonobuoys require manual selection and verification of functions such as RF Channel, Depth, etc. with selection and verification impossible while the sonobuoys are loaded in the launcher or in the storage racks onboard. The capability to select and verify functions while the sonobuoys are loaded in the launcher or in onboard storage racks would save time and permit more operational flexibility permitting in-situ adjustments in a constantly-changing tactical environment. This could be accomplished using a direct operator interface to the multi-mission maritime aircraft (MMA) mission computer for all on-board launchers as well as storage racks. A wireless, battery-operated, handheld device useable in low light conditions that can interface to a standard personal computer (PC) could be used to facilitate individual buoy interrogation and set up. SEA CORP investigated and evaluated the potential of several wireless technological alternatives that would permit wireless programming via a handheld or rack-mounted device and concluded that infrared would prove the optimum data transfer method. Evaluation criteria included cost-effectiveness, PC interface, adaptability to the MMA, reliability and the ability to operate in various environments while minimizing interference with organic aircraft systems.
* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *