All-Water Acoustic Release

Inventor: Timothy Kane

Overview: Recovering positively buoyant instruments anchored to the bottom of the ocean requires an acoustic signal to trigger the burn wire and release the anchor. Traditionally, burn wire acoustic release systems rely on conductive seawater and need about 15 minutes to burn through and release the instrument. These constraints restrict seismographic research to saltwater locations.

Technology Background: The All-Water Acoustic Release is a reusable, quick-release system mechanism that can operate with or without conductive seawater, allowing seismographic research in saltwater and freshwater. In addition, the All-Water Acoustic Release utilizes less power than traditional burn wires, generating a release time of less than a few seconds and can be reused during the same survey - saving time, money, and power.