Optimized MBES antenna and system for high resolution sonar imaging and AUV applications

Abstract

In this work we present an optimized multibeam echosounder (MBES) antenna and system design for high resolution sonar imaging. Furthermore the reconstruction concept based and delay-and-sum beamforming is presented. The antenna is based on high frequency and high bandwidth elements (1 MHz / 80 %) which are assembled to a 128-element antenna. The system uses the same antenna for transmitting and receiving acoustic signals. The antenna has a pressure neutral design, so the system can be used in deep sea environment. With the full ocean depth ability the MBES system has a broad range of possible applications. The multibeam echosounder system can be used for high resolution imaging purposes e.g. mapping, inspections of pipelines, ship hulls or harbor installations. In this work we present the design of electronic system and transducer antenna as well as the used reconstruction techniques. Also first acoustic performance measurements, a variety of object measurements and related 3-dimensional reconstructions are presented.