SWAMSI 2010 (Phase 6)

The contractor will apply vehicle modifications to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's 21 inch Bluefin Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) in preparation for the SWAMSI 2010 cruise. This effort will include the following tasks: Task 1: AvTrak II and Dropweight Reconfiguration: Under this task the contractor will fix ground fault problems discovered during SWAMSI 2009 as well as investigate the problem and reconfigure the wet cable. Task 2: Bottom Mount Transducer for one of the AUVs: The acoustic modem will be moved from the top of the data acquisition section to the bottom of the section. This relocation will allow the operator to communicate with the vehicle via acoustics while the vehicle is at the surface. To complete this task, the contractor will design, build and install a mount appropriate for this purpose. Task 3: The contractor will update drawings for the electrical and mechanical systems in accordance with the changes and upgrades the vehicle will undergo. Task 4: Vehicle Readiness & Factory Testing: After all changes are made to the vehicle, the system must be taken through factory testing to ensure the improvements and the general vehicle is functioning properly. Bluefin Robotics Corp. has been selected for this sole source award because they are the only firm capable of effectively performing the required vehicle modifications to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's 21 inch Bluefin Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs). Bluefin developed the 21 inch Autonomous Underwater Vehicles and as the original equipment manufacturer has an in-depth understanding as well as the ability to execute the task associated with this requirement. The Government requires the contractor to possess an in-depth understanding of the SWAMSI 2009 cruise in an effort to perform this requirement effectively. No other firm has an in-depth understanding of the SWAMSI cruise or the 21 inch Bluefin Autonomous Underwater Vehicles.