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Scanning Sonar |
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The LBV can be fitted with the latest small sonar m anufactured by Tritech International, called Micron. The simple sonar is mounted to the top of the LBV and the data is transmitted through the standard LBV umbilical to the surface. Use of the standard 8mm diameter umbilical maintains low drag. At the surface the Micron is controlled by PC based intuitive software (see below).
Use of the Micron with the LBV offers many benefits. Such benefits include:
- Long range image capture
- Low visibility image capture
- Range to object and Object avoidance
- Navigation
Long Range Image Capture
The Micron sonar has an approximate range of 75 meters. This added range enables sonar image capture from distances beyond visual. With the LBV stationary the Micron scans creating the image on the computer screen. When searching for an object interpreting the Micron image can help location and navigation. In addition, the 360 degree scan creates an image surro unding the LBV.
Low Visibility Image Capture
The cameras fitted to the LBV are essentially only as good as the human eye. When conditions are poor or light is refracting off particles in the water the Micron can help. The Micron is not limited in the same way and has the long range visibility in poor conditions. With this enhancement to the LBV it is easy to identify an object and navigate to it where a visual can be acquired.
Range to Object and Object Avoidance
Much like the Long Range Image Capture the Micron sonar can help to identify the distance to an object from the LBV up to 75 meters away. Perhaps the object requires a safe distance the Micron can determine its position without getting too close.
Navigation
Use of the Micron sonar with the LBV aids in navigation by knowing the distance to known objects as well as their orientation to the LBV. When first placed in the water LBV can scan the seabed locating objects to mark home. With the on board compass navigation is greatly simplified.
Software
Provided with the Micron sonar is a simple and intuitive PC based software package. Note: the PC computer is NOT supplied. This simple software provides the image with several additional features such as:
- Scan Sector Setup
- Scan Speed
- Zoom
- Recording of Image
- Image Measurement
- And more..
Integration to LBV
The sonar must be fitted either at SeaBotix Inc. or an authorized distributor. Integration is simple, however, the system must be tuned to the LB V and fully tested prior to use. Special electronics are fitted within the LBV to enable the data transmission over standard LBV umbilical. This revolutionary method keeps the umbilical diameter down to 8mm where other ROVs require a twisted pair and larger diameter umbilical. Reduced drag.
Visit Tritech's website for more information www.tritech.co.uk
 SeaBotix also offers an integrated Navigation Control Console which is a rugged PC solution with a simple interface to the LBV control console. The NCC also includes data recording and video capture.
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