Typical power budget and possible energy source for Autonomous Oceanographic Network (AOSN) Labrador Sea Experiment (LSE)

Abstract

The Autonomous Oceanographic Network (AOSN) Labrador Sea Experiment (LSE) will be held in the Labrador Sea at a seawater depth of 300 - 3500 meters. The total system will consist of a number of AUVs which will operate from a set of moorings within a defined area. Each mooring will be placed on the seafloor. The docking stations will be placed in the water column at 100 - 200 meters water depth. Each AUV will have at least one possible docking station to charge batteries and to transfer data. Ths report will show two different load pattern examples for the AOSN LSE, and the implications upon the power budget of the mooring. The possible use of a seawater battery and its implications upon the system will be discussed. A preliminar design of the sizes and weights of a seawater battery for this application is also included. Energy delivery to an experiment like the AOSN LSE with the use of a seawater battery is feasible both technically and within the time span of the AOSN project. The environment of the Labrador Sea is well documented and seems suitable to accomodate a seawater battery. Due to the large water depths involved and the simplicity of the system, and the lack of any large pressure housings the seawater battery seems like a good candidate both in respect to costs and feasibilty.