J+S Presents Next-Generation Array Product at OI 2014

J+S Ltd are launching their next-generation, small diameter, passive acoustic line array product at Oceanology International, ExCel, London in March this year.

Named after the small electric ray of this name, NarcineArray™ is a product family of low profile acoustic arrays, suitable for static or towed applications that can be configured to suit the desired application or platform. J+S have made use of their knowledge and experience of larger diameter arrays to develop this highly adaptable product that is uniquely suited to today’s underwater environment.

When compared with a conventional towed array, NarcineArray™ provides a significant reduction in power consumption, diameter (down to 16mm), weight and drag. This means that the array can be deployed and recovered far more easily, often without any specialist handling equipment. Because of the reduced weight, drag and power consumption NarcineArray™ can also be deployed from a much greater range of vessels, from conventional surface vessels to unmanned vessels (surface and underwater).

Alongside the miniature Integrated Acoustic Sensors, J+S have also developed the Micro Non-Acoustic Sensor (µNAS) and Micro Data Acquisition & Source System (µDASS) products. These products are designed to augment the acoustic sensors within NarcineArray™. The µNAS provides Depth, Heading, Temperature and 3 axis Micro-Electromechanical System (MEMS) sensor data. The µDASS provides full digitisation capability within the array, requiring only power and a single Ethernet data interface to integrate the array.

As a example of how the NarcineArray is opening up a new range of deployment options, J+S Ltd have collaborated with AutoNaut®, a revolutionary new wave propelled vessel for ocean research built by MOST (Autonomous Vessels) Ltd for very long endurance autonomous data gathering. The AutoNaut® harvests solar energy at sea to power her state of the art electronics. Recent successful trials as part of the NOC and DSTL-funded Phase 2 Long Endurance Marine Unmanned Surface Vessel (LEMUSV) project has proved a successful combination for both of these new groundbreaking technologies. AutoNaut® are on STAND D445 at Oceanology International 2014.

Mike Poole, Director of MOST (AV) commented: “Ease of handling and the robust nature of the array were clearly demonstrated in recent trials. The array was able to track a target of opportunity, and with the absence of tow vessel noise 360 degree coverage was achieved. Our collaboration with J+S Ltd is a triumph of innovative UK engineering expertise at its best.”

To provide a complete low cost sonar solution, J+S have partnered with Canadian company Array Systems Computing Inc. Array developed the sonar signal processing for NarcineArray, having delivered acoustic analysis systems to several navies worldwide.

Kris Huber, Chief Technology Officer at Array Systems commented: “Our Naval customers were telling us that in addition to our SONAR acoustic processing software, they were also looking for cost effective surveillance and harbor monitoring solutions. Thus, there is a natural partnership between J+S Ltd, the developers of the NarcineArray, and ourselves.

“The complete solution of the very low profile NarcineArray, integrated with our proven real-time SONAR processor and displays, presents a compelling cost effective solution that has attracted a great deal of attention from our current customers.”

Andy Toms, Managing Director for J+S said: “This launch at Oceanology International is the result of months of intensive sonar engineering work by our Product Development team and allows us to offer customers an easily configurable solution to bespoke acoustic requirements. The collaboration with MOST AV and Array Systems Computing means that together we can deliver a complete end to end sensing capability.”

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Press Release, March 11, 2014