3D Sonar Underwater Structure Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for building a three-dimensional model of underwater structures, such as offshore oil platforms and underwater mountain ranges, are inefficient and lack precision, particularly when using divers, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), as they struggle with simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) in dynamic underwater environments.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a 3D sonar system onboard an underwater vehicle to direct acoustic sonar waves, process responses into 3D images, and align new data points with an alignment model to build a precise three-dimensional model of underwater structures, capable of real-time processing and adaptation, even for non-stationary structures experiencing drift.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional inspection methods (divers, ROVs, AUVs) are used to inspect underwater structures, then inspection can be performed, but the ability to build accurate three-dimensional models is poor and simultaneous localization and mapping is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical inspection methods (divers, ROVs, AUVs) with an acoustic sonar-based system. The sonar system transmits acoustic waves that reflect off the underwater structure to create three-dimensional images, eliminating the need for physical contact or visual inspection by divers or vehicles. This substitution enables more efficient and accurate model building by using acoustic field interactions instead of mechanical inspection approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of data collection from mechanical/visual to acoustic. By using sonar waves with specific frequencies and analyzing their reflections, the system creates three-dimensional models through acoustic parameter analysis rather than mechanical measurement or visual capture. This parameter change enables simultaneous localization and mapping with improved accuracy and efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If sonar data is collected from multiple positions to build a complete three-dimensional model, then model completeness improves, but data alignment complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the underwater structure into multiple three-dimensional images captured from different positions. Each sonar scan creates a discrete three-dimensional image that can be independently processed and then aligned with other images through automated registration algorithms. This segmentation allows the system to handle complex data alignment by processing smaller, manageable image segments rather than attempting to align all data at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses automated feedback mechanisms where the alignment model is continuously refined based on the consistency and overlap of multiple sonar images. The registration algorithms analyze the three-dimensional images and automatically adjust their positions and orientations, providing feedback that improves alignment accuracy. This feedback loop enables the system to handle increasing data complexity by automatically optimizing the alignment model as more images are processed.
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 the creation of accurate and dynamic three-dimensional models of underwater structures with high precision and speed, suitable for inspection, repair, and manipulation, even in complex and varying underwater environments, using 3D sonar data and inertial navigation systems.
Implementation Method 1
directing an acoustic sonar wave toward an underwater structure, and receiving a response from directing the acoustic sonar wave toward the underwater structure
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system are described that can be used for scanning underwater structures. The method and system allow a user to gain a better understanding of an existing underwater structure. For example, the method and system allow for building a three dimensional model of an underwater structure. A sonar wave is directed toward an underwater structure, and a reflected sonar wave is received. Initial 3D data points are obtained from the reflected sonar wave, and are configured to provide a three-dimensional image of the underwater structure. A working alignment model of the underwater structure is generated by the initial data points. As new 3D sonar data is collected, the new 3D sonar data is aligned with and added to the alignment model.