E-RAP의 개발과 응용

Abstract

The CREAMS/PICES EAST-I (East Asian Seas Time-series I) program has recently developed E-RAP (EAST-1 Real-time Automatic Profiler). This is a new instrument for observing continuous vertical profiles of hydrographic, chemical, and ecological parameters at a fixed station. Depth is controlled by a modified APEX (Autonomous Profiling Explorer) engine, similar to what is used in Argo satellite drifters. When the buoyancy of E-RAP is adjusted to neutral by buoy blocks, it moves up and down by ballasting and de-ballasting. Its mean vertical speed is about 4 m min-1 when the sea condition is not bad. Real-time data are sent to the surface buoy by inductive modem through the deployment wire. The buoy then sends the data to the main shore workstation by wireless telecommunication system (CDMA, Orbcomm Satellite, or VHF radio). E-RAP has been deployed at the Super-Station of EAST-1 (37° 00’N, 131° 00’E) since May, 2010. At present, E-RAP carries temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and fluorescence sensors. Examples of the data obtained by this system will be shown.