Retrievable volumetric/planar acoustic array apparatus

摘要

A volumetric/planar array structure for detection of low frequency active pulses in shallow water. The structure is such that the array can be repeatedly deployed and retrieved. The invention utilizes folding array arms that are deployed at a pre-selected depth using only gravity once the release mechanism for deployment has been initiated. Rigid vertical support rods attach to all array levels preventing rotation down below the desired horizontal position during operation. Retraction of array arms for array structure retrieval is initiated by activating an electronic underwater release mechanism which then allows compliant rubber members to pull array arms in place. Once the array arms are in place, they are protected by a skid/crash cage fixture and the array structure is then ready for retrieval.