Particle Acceleration Microsensors for Sonar Applications

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We are proposing a collaborative research project with our industrial partner, Ultra Electronics Maritime Systems (UEMS) Inc., Dartmouth, NS, in order to develop micromachined acoustic particle acceleration sensors for sonar applications. Sonobuoys detect sonar signals that are produced or reflected by underwater objects and are extensively used for the detection of submarines. As a major producer of sonobuoys, UEMS has sold millions of these sensitive systems to NATO countries. The piezoelectric hydrophones currently used by UEMS cannot detect the low-frequency sonar signals. SFU and UEMS teams have collaborated to build the highest performance micromachined accelerometers reported to date. Building upon the success of previous collaborations between SFU and UEMS teams, the goal of this research project is to develop micromachined particle acceleration sensors that can replace hydrophones in sonobuoys. To produce devices with a performance suitable for sonobuoys, we need to significantly improve on the performance the earlier devices while reducing their dimensions. Consequently, this proposal aims to produce novel device designs, microfabrication processes, interface electronics, control algorithms, and packaging technologies to achieve the required performance levels, which are unattainable through simple application of existing methodologies. Three prototypes will be designed, fabricated, tested, and delivered to UEMS over the course of this project. The devices developed through this project will push the limits of performance and lead to generation of new knowledge in the field. SFU is ideally suited to conduct this research due to existence of team expertise and two cleanrooms. All of the devised designs, prototypes, and future products based on them can be entirely fabricated and assembled in Canada, as needed by the industrial partner. This further provides job opportunities and wealth in Canada. Seven highly qualified personnel will be trained on different aspects of this technology. The training environment created through this proposal will be crucial for the future commercialization of the devices.