Solid fill acoustic array

Abstract

An acoustic array including a plurality of acoustic sensors positioned at predetermined telemetry points for measuring the acoustic energy from the surrounding environment. The acoustic sensors are each positioned within a fluid-filled pocket in the acoustic array, wherein each the various fluid-filled pockets are separated from each other by a section of solid fill buoyant material. The sections of solid fill material control the buoyancy of the acoustic array. The acoustic array is surrounded by a longitudinally extending outer hosewall which encloses the acoustic array and forms the fluid-filled pockets between the sections of solid fill material. A strength member is extended longitudinally throughout the length of the acoustic array to provide a load bearing mechanism for distributing longitudinal tensile loads applied to the acoustic array, while support spacers are situated within the acoustic array to provide radial support for the acoustic array. The acoustic array is formed of a lightweight and electrically passive structure which allows water to be used as the fill fluid for the pockets. Using water as the fill fluid provides an environmentally-safe fill fluid having buoyancy characteristics which are not significantly altered by its mixture with water from the surrounding environment should a rupture in the hosewall occur.