SonicWorks’ Acoustic Positioning and Navigation System (APNS)
is a high-speed precision measurement system providing underwater
position data for robotic control and
critical measurements systems. The SonicWorks APNS is the precision underwater
equivalent of terrestrial GPS.
The SonicWorks APNS comprises a flexible, short-to-long baseline system,
operating on a multi- frequency basis and achieving ranges from 3 to 1,000
meters. The maximum update rate is 50 times per second with total cycle times
dependent upon total range.
The system uses the frequency range from 100 to 600 kHz and programmable
power control to achieve precision measurement and good range. Digital signal
processing is used to achieve precision with a typical accuracy of 1 cm at
300 kHz over a 100-meter range.
The system calculates position based on time of arrival and time differential.
This dual calcula tion ability allows for tracking of SonicWorks components
and independent
sources such as other manufacturer transponders. The frequency and power
control agility allows the system to be used effectively in a wide variety
of environments from closed tanks and vessels to the open ocean.
The SonicWorks APNS is deployed on a cable, similar to the deployment
of lobster pots, then immediately calibrated. Competing systems require
pre-measurement before deployment, then take hours – even days – to
calibrate. While other systems are limited to three elements or transceivers
per measurement system, which limits the view of an object such as
a ship hull, APNS uses as many as 12 per controller, and controllers
may
be configured to cover any size or shape of area. APNS also incorporates
acoustic modem technology that enables wireless connection to a host of special
function devices for underwater measurement and communication.
SonicWorks APNS and Robotic Control System
There are over 4,000 remotely
operated vehicles (ROVs) operating worldwide. These machines perform a multitude of
underwater operations, such as inspection, service and maintenance and construction.
Current technology relies on human guidance, limited by the visual field of an onboard camera. Poor visibility is a serious limiting factor in current operations. SonicWorks' Acoustic Positioning and Navigation System (APNS) can provide precision three-dimensional position information in water, regardless of visibility. The APNS software provides a virtual world in which computer-aided drawing (CAD) of structures can be installed. In this virtual world, a remotely operated vehicle fitted with the APNS may be piloted to precise locations and avoid obstructions. When a remotely operated
vehicle is also equipped with the SonicWorks' Robotic Control System (RCS), the vehicle
operation can be totally automated. Inspections can then be preprogrammed to precise
flight paths for fast, accurate inspection.
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SonicWorks Dam Inspection System
This system and project reporting software will use the same basic technology as the ship hull system. Specific equipment and capabilities such as three-dimensional scanning, seismic testing and water jetting will be added to address the specific requirements of the dam industry. The SonicWorks' Dam Inspection Report will present the dam owner with an image map of the dam face and structures overlaid on the virtual model. Subsequent inspection, measurement and remediation planning can be based on this model.
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SonicWorks Underwater Security System (USS) & Non-Lethal Intruder Engagement Weapon
The SonicWorks' Underwater Security System combines APNS technology with fixed array sonar. This system has the ability to detect any movement in a defined volume of water, whether it is a surface craft, underwater vehicle, diver or swimmer. The SonicWorks' USS surpasses conventional sonar and provides an impenetrable detection zone of any size or shape. The technology is unique in its ability to operate in a fixed position while providing precise detection, tracking and presentation of 3D images of any intrusion. The system is not subject to the limitations of shallow water or surface distractions of conventional sonar, and provides cost-effective total coverage. It also includes the ability to see outside the immediate zone for detection of imminent threats such as approaching high-speed vessels. The system design features a high level of automation and ready integration into existing surface-based security systems.
The "Bee Sting" is a non-lethal weapon system for automated swimmer engagement. This robotic vehicle operates within the USS system to create a high automated protection system for coastal facilities and ships at anchor.
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SonicWorks Underwater Ship Hull Inspection System
With today's concerns of security, the in-water inspection process performed by a SonicWorks Inspection system combines the company's proprietary APNS precision positioning and robotic control system with SonicWorks' patented "Motion Compensation System" to provide a vehicle equipped with hull contouring technology that will produce a full hull (100% in water) in a matter of hours. A surface crew of three with one diver on-call will operate the system allowing true robotic hull contouring and inspections. The SonicWorks' Inspection System yields data that will aid significantly in the inspection for and detection of ordinance and contraband.
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