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

Survey Technology Overview

Overview available survey systems

The Digital Ocean Lab integrates cutting-edge survey technologies to support high-resolution underwater mapping, object detection 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.

 

Focus 3 Underwater Vehicle 

The MacArtney Focus 3 Underwater Vehicle, operated within the Digital Ocean Lab, is equipped with a unique, comprehensive suite of high-resolution sensors. Designed to meet the most demanding requirements of underwater research, monitoring and inspection, the system reflects the current state of the art in underwater technology. Its integration into the Digital Ocean Lab's infrastructure ensures access to cutting-edge capabilities for researchers, safety experts and environmental specialists.

Key Features :

  • INS SPRINT-Nav 700: A high-precision Inertial Navigation System (INS) that integrates advanced motion and positioning sensors.
  • MBES Teledyne T50 (Multibeam Echo Sounder): A high-resolution multibeam echo sounder that generates detailed seafloor maps. 
  • Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) – Kraken MINSAS 120: This ultrahigh-resolution sonar system delivers unprecedented seafloor imaging, capable of detecting and classifying small or partially buried objects. 
  • 3D Sub-Bottom SAS – EdgeTech eBOSS: The sub-bottom SAS profiler uses synthetic aperture technology to create detailed 3D reconstructions of subsurface layers.
  • Gradiometer 3+1 – Geometrics G-882: A magnetometer array capable of detecting minute magnetic anomalies. 
  • Four HD Cameras with Integrated Lighting: four high-definition cameras and powerful underwater lights, providing exceptional visual coverage for documenting the seafloor, habitats and subsea structures.
  • Sonardyne USBL Sub-Mini 6+ Transponder: An ultrashort baseline (USBL) acoustic positioning system that ensures real-time, precise tracking of the vehicle. 
  • Valeport Midas Environmental Sensors: A versatile CTD sensor suite for in situ water quality monitoring

 

Multibeam Echo Sounder (MBES)

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.

 

Side Scan Sonar System

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.

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.