Modular Sonar Inspection System for Underwater Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for inspecting underwater structures, such as subsea oil platforms, are limited in their ability to efficiently generate detailed 3D models and detect changes over time, and often require tethered operations which restrict mobility and data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, modular system combining 3D sonar, Inertial Navigation System (INS), and optional additional sonar systems and cameras, which can be deployed by divers, AUVs, or ROVs, allowing for untethered operation and real-time data processing to create 3D models and detect changes in underwater structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If divers, ROVs, or AUVs are used for inspection, then the ability to inspect underwater structures is improved, but the efficiency of generating detailed 3D models and detecting changes over time deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple inspection tools (3D sonar, INS, additional sonar systems, cameras) into an integrated modular system that can be deployed on divers, ROVs, or AUVs. This merging of functions enables simultaneous data collection from multiple sensors, dramatically improving 3D model generation efficiency and change detection capability while maintaining the reliability of underwater structure inspection.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular inspection system is designed to be universally deployable on multiple platforms (divers, ROVs, AUVs) and performs multiple functions including 3D modeling, change detection, navigation, and visual data collection. This multi-functionality allows a single system to address various inspection needs efficiently, resolving the contradiction between reliable inspection and productive 3D model generation.
2Reliability
If tethered operations are used, then power and communication are maintained, but mobility and data transmission are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system is segmented into modular components that can operate independently or in coordination. The modular design allows the system to function as a self-contained unit with onboard power (submersible battery assemblies) and processing capabilities, reducing dependency on tether connections while maintaining operational reliability through distributed functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-service capabilities including onboard power supply through submersible battery assemblies, autonomous navigation using INS, and independent data processing. These self-service features enable the system to operate without continuous tether connection, freeing mobility and data transmission while maintaining power and communication stability through self-contained subsystems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables comprehensive 3D modeling and change detection of underwater structures, providing accurate navigation and visual data collection, while offering flexibility in deployment methods and reducing operational constraints.
Implementation Method 1
The system can include and fully utilize a 3D sonar system
Implementation Method 2
scan any type of underwater structure composed of material dissimilar enough from water to provide sonar reflections
Implementation Method 3
The INS can include a Doppler Velocity Log (DVL)
Data Source
AI summary
A system that can be used for inspecting underwater structures. The system allows a user to gain a better understanding of the condition of an underwater structure. The system is a self-contained, modular system that can be operated by divers, coupled to an AUV, ROV or other host platform vehicle deployment platform, towed by a ship, pole mounted, or hull mounted. All of the components necessary to achieve the desired scanning functions are incorporated onto the self-contained, modular system. The system can include and fully utilize a 3D sonar system and an inertial navigation system. This combination of features permits the system to be used to, for example, generate 3D models of underwater structures, detect changes in underwater structures by comparing the generated 3D model against an a priori 3D model, and provide navigational updates to the host platform based on the observed features of an underwater structure.