Sonobuoy Electronic Function Selector (EFS) Replacement

Present sonobuoys allow for the selection of functions such as RF Channel, Depth, etc. by use of a single selector button and LED display along with a second button used for verification located on the side of the sonobuoy. Selection or verification requires access to the buttons and cannot be accomplished once the sonobuoy is loaded into the launcher. The capability to select and verify functions wirelessly employing either an in-launcher Ir interface or a battery-operated, Ir handheld device useable in low light conditions that can interface to a standard personal computer (PC) has been deemed desirable for adaptation to the P-8A Poseidon by NAVAIR. Use in P-8A would permit programming and verification to be accomplished via direct interface with the mission computer while the sonobuoy is in the launcher and while the aircraft is in flight. Team SEA CORP will advance Remote Electronic Function Select (REFS) Ir sonobuoy programming technologies developed in Phases I and II to TRL-6 to enable future P-8A integration. The Team SEA CORP solution will address specific requirements for P-8A integration. The full system will cost under $15K in production. Reliability and the ability to operate in various environments will be addressed.