Alan Fougere

Title: Alan Fougere: Innovator in Underwater Communication Technology

Introduction

Alan Fougere is a notable inventor based in North Falmouth, MA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of underwater communication technology. His innovative work focuses on the development of systems that enhance data collection and transmission in deep ocean environments.

Latest Patents

Alan Fougere holds a patent for an "Inductively Coupled Underwater Modem." This invention provides a subsurface instrument and a system for the collection and transmission of deep ocean data utilizing standard buoy mooring lines. The system includes a moored surface buoy and a submerged data collection instrument that are inductively coupled to the buoy cable. The instrument features a transducer that responds to the characteristics of seawater. A slave modem is interconnected to the transducer through an A/D converter, allowing analog transducer signals to be converted to standard telephone modem signals. The modem signals are inductively coupled into the mooring cable and received by a master modem located in the buoy. The buoy may also contain a satellite transceiver for transmitting signals to a remote location. The subsurface instrument is battery powered, with battery life extended by powering down when not in use. Upon receiving a signal from the master modem or an internal timer, a wake-up circuit in the instrument is activated, initiating the transmission of ocean data.

Career Highlights

Alan is associated with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, where he continues to contribute to advancements in oceanographic research and technology. His work has been instrumental in improving the methods used for underwater data collection.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Alan has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Daniel Frye and Kenneth W. Doherty. These partnerships have fostered innovation and have led to significant advancements in the field.

Conclusion

Alan Fougere's contributions to underwater communication technology exemplify the impact of innovative thinking in scientific research. His patent for the inductively coupled underwater modem represents a significant advancement in the collection and transmission of ocean data.