An acoustic system for releasing submerged oceanographic buoys from their anchors on demand using a 1.4 kc compact source

Abstract

The paper describes an anchor-releasing device for the recovery of moored oceanographic equipment. The releaser is actuated by a remote acoustic signal emitted by a small and powerful 1400 cps sound source rather than by unsafe explosive charges. The acoustic power output of the source can be regulated according to the range of operation, up to a maximum of 400 watts. The submerged unit is self-contained, remains active for several months and is recovered together with the oceanographic equipment. Special steps were taken to prevent false triggering of the releaser either by high or low level noise.