Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD
Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD

Survey Technology Overview

Survey Technology Overview – Teledyne SeaBat T51 & Klein MA-X View 600 Systems

The Digital Ocean Lab integrates cutting-edge survey technologies to support high-resolution underwater mapping, object detection[MOU1]  and infrastructure inspections. Two key components in the lab’s sensor suite are the Teledyne SeaBat T51 Multibeam Echo Sounder (MBES) and the Klein MA-X View 600 Side Scan Sonar, both paired with advanced positioning and control systems for optimal accuracy and performance.

 

Teledyne SeaBat T51 Multibeam Echo Sounder (MBES)

The Teledyne SeaBat T51 is a next-generation multibeam echo sounder designed to deliver ultrahigh-resolution bathymetric data. The system’s versatility allows for detailed underwater surveys of both shallow and deepwater environments.

Key Features:

  • High-Resolution Bathymetric Mapping: Captures detailed 3D seafloor models with superior resolution, aiding in underwater exploration, sediment analysis and object detection.
  • Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) Positioning: Integrated RTK enhances survey accuracy by providing real-time centimeter-level corrections to the system’s geospatial data.
  • Ideal for Infrastructure Inspection: The system is optimized for subsea installations, including pipelines, cables and offshore structures.

 

Klein MA-X View 600 – Side Scan Sonar System

The Klein MA-X View 600 is a high-performance side scan sonar that provides high-resolution, near-photographic imaging of the seabed. It is particularly effective for applications such as UXO detection, archaeological surveys and seafloor characterization.

Key Features:

  • Dual-Frequency Side Scan Imaging: Produces both wide-area coverage and detailed object imaging for comprehensive seafloor surveys.
  • Integrated RTK and USBL Positioning: RTK ensures precise geospatial data for horizontal alignment, while Ultra-Short Baseline (USBL) technology provides accurate real-time underwater positioning of the sonar array.
  • Efficient Data Collection: Allows operators to perform long, continuous surveys with minimal repositioning, improving operational efficiency.

 

Survey Support Infrastructure

  1. MacArtney CORMAC M5 Deck Winch
    • The survey system includes a MacArtney CORMAC M5 deck winch, a robust and reliable solution designed to manage towing operations for sonar and echo sounder systems.
    • The winch supports seamless deployment and recovery of survey equipment, with high durability to withstand harsh marine environments.
    • Power Supply: Operates on a 230V connection, compatible with standard marine power systems.
  2. Positioning Integration
    • The combination of RTK and USBL technologies ensures real-time tracking and positioning during survey operations, reducing drift and positional errors for both surface and underwater equipment.
    • This integration is essential for multi-sensor synchronization, enabling accurate and repeatable survey coverage.
© Fraunhofer IGD
© Fraunhofer IGD
© Fraunhofer IGD

Applications and Use Cases

  1. Seafloor Mapping and Topography
    • High-resolution bathymetric data from the SeaBat T51 provides detailed models of seafloor terrain, enabling resource planning, marine research and construction projects.
  2. Object Detection and Classification
    • The Klein MA-X View 600 excels in detecting underwater objects, including UXO, debris and shipwrecks, offering detailed imagery that supports further analysis and decision-making.
  3. Marine Infrastructure Inspection
    • Both sonar systems are ideal for assessing the condition of underwater infrastructure. High-definition imaging ensures that structural damage, sediment accumulation or corrosion can be detected early.
  4. Environmental Monitoring
    • These technologies provide data critical for habitat assessment, sediment transport studies,[MOU2]  and monitoring the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems.
  5. Accident and Incident Investigation
    • The system supports detailed post-incident surveys by generating high-resolution images of debris fields, enabling accurate documentation and analysis of underwater events.

 

System Advantages

  • Unmatched Survey Precision: Combined use of MBES and Side Scan Sonar with RTK and USBL positioning ensures centimeter-level accuracy for both vertical and horizontal survey data.
  • High-Efficiency Deployment: The MacArtney CORMAC M5 winch simplifies operations by enabling smooth and reliable deployment and recovery of survey equipment.
  • Multi-Sensor Integration: The system is designed to synchronize data streams, enhancing data accuracy for research and analysis.
  • Versatility for Various Environments: The survey technology can be adapted to both shallow and deepwater applications, covering diverse research and operational needs.

This comprehensive survey system at the Digital Ocean Lab enables high-precision marine surveys, supporting critical research, exploration and safety operations with state-of-the-art equipment and data integration capabilities.