Design for a Small Discus Buoy Directional Wave Measurement System

The NOAA Data Buoy office (NDBO) has developed a small discuss buoy 3.65 meters in diameter capable of producing synoptic directional wave spectra and other environmental data. The objectives for the development of this buoy are the determination of the feasibility of operationally measuring and reporting directional and other wave measurements, the evaluation of untried wave measurement sensors, and the investigation of techniques for the use of buoys in surface current measurements. This small buoy provides a research tool to support continuing waves development efforts. The Prototype Directional Wave Data Analyzer (PDWDA) system employs a microprocessor-based electronics package capable of acquiring and recording time series of wave data, processing these data to obtain directional spectral estimates, and transmitting these estimates to shore. The system outputs are compatible with the NDBO Experimental Environmental Research Buoy (XERB) system and with the NDBO operational Directional Wave Data Analyzer System.