Underwater acoustic positioning system

Underwater Acoustic Positioning System

An underwater acoustic positioning system is a technology used to determine the position of an object underwater. These systems are commonly used in oceanography, marine biology, and underwater archaeology to track the location of submersibles, divers, and other underwater equipment.

Types of Systems

There are several types of underwater acoustic positioning systems, each with its own method of operation and application:

Long Baseline (LBL) Systems

A Long Baseline (LBL) acoustic positioning system in use with an ROV.

LBL systems use a network of transponders placed on the seafloor. The position of an object is determined by measuring the time it takes for a signal to travel between the object and the transponders. This method provides high accuracy and is often used for ROV operations and submarine tracking.

Short Baseline (SBL) Systems

SBL systems use a set of transducers mounted on a vessel. The position of an object is calculated by measuring the time difference of arrival of signals at the different transducers. SBL systems are typically used for diver tracking and AUV operations.

Ultra-Short Baseline (USBL) Systems

USBL systems combine the features of LBL and SBL systems. They use a single transducer to send and receive signals, and the position is determined by measuring the angle and time of arrival of the signal. USBL systems are versatile and can be used for a variety of applications, including oceanographic research and marine construction.

Applications

Underwater acoustic positioning systems are used in a wide range of applications:

• Scientific Research: Used in oceanography to track the movement of ocean currents and marine life.
• Marine Construction: Essential for the precise placement of underwater structures such as oil rigs and cables.
• Search and Recovery: Used in salvage operations to locate and recover objects from the seafloor.

Historical Development

The USNS Mizar, a ship used in early underwater positioning experiments.

The development of underwater acoustic positioning systems began in the mid-20th century, driven by the need for accurate underwater navigation. Early systems were developed for military applications, such as tracking submarines. Over time, the technology has evolved and expanded into commercial and scientific fields.

Notable Uses

The Bathyscaphe Trieste, which used early acoustic positioning technology.

• The Bathyscaphe Trieste used acoustic positioning during its historic dive to the Challenger Deep in 1960.
• The Mir submersibles have used advanced acoustic positioning systems for deep-sea exploration.

The Mir submersible, equipped with modern acoustic positioning systems.

Future Developments

Advancements in acoustic technology and signal processing continue to improve the accuracy and reliability of underwater positioning systems. Future developments may include integration with satellite navigation systems and enhanced data transmission capabilities.

Related Pages

• Sonar
• Marine navigation
• Autonomous underwater vehicle

Underwater_acoustic_positioning_system

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  LBL Acoustic Positioning Aquamap ROV

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  USNS Mizar

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  Bathyscaphe Trieste

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  Mir front

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  NetTrack Operation