Woods Hole Oceanographic' Institution

Other

John M Toole

Kenneth W Doherty

Frederik T Thwaites

Jeffrey K O'Brien

Robert C Millard

Daniel E Frye

The present invention relates to profiler systems and methods for observing and sensing aspects of a body of water at a plurality of depths. A water profiler is disclosed comprising, generally, a vessel body connected to an external mooring mechanism via an attachment mechanism, a drive mechanism for maneuvering the vessel body longitudinally about the mooring mechanism; an articulating mechanism; and a sensor array capable of measuring a parameter for study wherein the vessel body is capable of articulating about the mooring mechanism. In alternate embodiments, the articulation allows the vessel body to be placed in relation with the three dimensional current such that at least one sensor is positioned into the current so as to sample or measure undisturbed water. In alternate embodiments, hydrofoils or wings are mounted to the vessel body that can be manipulated to harness the current force and maneuver the vessel body.

Articulating moored profiler system

The present invention relates to profiler systems and methods for observing and sensing aspects of a body of water at a plurality of depths. A water profiler is disclosed comprising, generally, a vessel body connected to an external mooring cable via an attachment means, a drive means for maneuvering the vessel body longitudinally about the mooring cable; an articulating mechanism; and a sensor array capable of measuring a parameter for study wherein the vessel body is capable of articulating about the mooring cable. In alternate embodiments, the articulation allows the vessel body to be placed in relation with the three dimensional current such that at least one sensor is positioned into the current so as to sample or measure undisturbed water. In alternate embodiments, hydrofoils or wings are mounted to the vessel body that can be manipulated to harness the current force and maneuver the vessel body.

A water profiling apparatus having a streamlined body with a traction drive capable of repeatedly profiling along a moored or suspended cable or wire, for transporting sensing and sampling equipment through a body of water, such as an ocean, lake or river. The water profiling apparatus is able to operate unattended on a pre-programmed schedule over long periods of time, profiling to full ocean depth, with the option of changing its schedule depending on the observations it makes or operating situations encountered.

Moored water profiling apparatus

A frame, freely-falling on a cable or wire, for transporting sensing and sampling equipment at a near constant velocity through a body of water, such as an ocean, lake or river. Said apparatus' downward motion is stopped at or near the end of the cable or wire, and the apparatus is subsequently retrieved by raising the cable or making the frame buoyant.

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North Falmouth, MA, United States of America

John M Toole