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SUCA: An engine for repetitive autonomous profiling near the ocean surface
Author(s) -
Stevens Craig L.,
Hill Peter,
Smith Murray J.,
Popinet Stéphane
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
limnology and oceanography: methods
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.898
H-Index - 72
ISSN - 1541-5856
DOI - 10.4319/lom.2005.3.300
Subject(s) - marine engineering , sampling (signal processing) , swell , environmental science , profiling (computer programming) , geology , computer science , oceanography , engineering , telecommunications , detector , operating system
The SUCA (SUbmerging Controller Addition) is a robust engine for repeated profiling (yo‐yoing) in near‐surface waters. It connects to a number of existing oceanic sampling packages and enables many hundreds of profiles to be made over the upper 10 m or so of the ocean or lake in a relatively short period. The workings of the unit are described along with an estimate of power requirements and the wind‐limited maximum depth. An advantage of the SUCA is that it enables the entire sampling package to be positively buoyant. The engine has proven to be a simple and robust device that is flexible enough to work with a range of sampling packages in a variety of locations including long‐swell Southern Ocean conditions and choppy coastal waters.