MehrstrahlEchosensoren

MehrstrahlEchosensoren, also known as multi-beam echo sounders, are sonar systems designed to map the seafloor with high resolution and accuracy. Unlike single-beam echo sounders that emit a single sound pulse, MehrstrahlEchosensoren emit multiple acoustic beams, typically in a fan-shaped pattern. This allows them to cover a wider swath of the seabed in a single pass, significantly increasing survey efficiency.

The principle of operation involves transmitting acoustic pulses from a transducer array. These pulses are directed towards the seabed at different angles. The sound waves reflect off the seafloor and are received by the same transducer array. By measuring the time it takes for the sound to travel to the seabed and back for each beam, and knowing the angle of each beam, the depth and position of multiple points on the seafloor can be determined simultaneously.

MehrstrahlEchosensoren are crucial tools in hydrography, marine geology, offshore construction, and environmental monitoring. They provide detailed bathymetric data, enabling the creation of accurate nautical charts and the identification of underwater features such as sandwaves, wrecks, and pipelines. The higher resolution compared to single-beam systems is particularly valuable for detecting smaller objects and subtle topographic variations. Different types of MehrstrahlEchosensoren exist, varying in their operating frequencies, beam count, and swath width, which influences their suitability for different applications and water depths.