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Sonar imaging technology has undergone
significant advancements in recent years, driven
especially, by the need for improved navigation in
uncrewed systems. One of the most notable is the
integration of 3D imaging capabilities.
Traditional 2D forward-looking sonar provides a flat
representation of the underwater scene ahead of a
vessel, which can be limiting in complex
environments. The option of 3D imaging allows for
a more comprehensive understanding of
underwater topography and potential obstacles,
enhancing situational awareness and decision-
making.
A key attribute of forward-looking sonar is versatility.
Modern systems are designed to be compatible
with a wide range of platforms, from large vessels to
small boats and underwater vehicles.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and
machine learning algorithms represent another leap
forward. These technologies enable sonar systems
to interpret complex sonar data more effectively,
distinguishing between different types of
underwater objects and reducing false positives. AI-
enhanced FLS can learn from previous scans to
improve accuracy over time, making them
invaluable for applications such as underwater
archaeology, where precise identification of objects
is crucial.
Research in this area is ongoing, with studies
exploring the use of self-supervised learning
methods to estimate 3D information from 2D
forward-looking sonar images, further enhancing
the capabilities of FLS systems.
While companies look to enhance the technology,
especially in the large commercial sonars, there are
probably a larger number of applications such the
smaller boat market or entry level/low cost
autonomous vehicles where economics is a greater
driver than technology. Such a system may not
require such an advanced product but simply needs
to know if there is an underwater object that might
endanger the vehicle/vessel.
3D IMAGING
Its forward range extends up to an impressive 200m,
a capability that places it among the most advanced
forward-looking sonar systems on the market,
rivalled only by larger commercial units.
One of the standout features of the Echo Pilot is its
depth-to-range ratio. Boasting a 20:1 ratio, this
technology allows users to see 100m ahead with just
5m of water beneath the vessel. This exceptional
performance ensures safe navigation, even in poorly
charted or uncharted areas, by providing early
warning of underwater hazards and terrain changes.
The system’s real-time sonar updates every second,
ensuring the captain is always informed about the
seabed’s contours and potential hazards. Designed
as a versatile black-box solution, the FLS 3D
integrates seamlessly with any display featuring a
video input. This flexibility allows boat owners to
incorporate the system into their existing
navigational setups with ease.
For Raymarine users, EchoPilot has taken integration
to the next level. By connecting via Raynet, the FLS
3D app becomes accessible directly on Raymarine’s
Axiom displays.
This enables simultaneous viewing of sea charts and
forward-looking sonar in real-time, with the option
for split-screen functionality. The full-colour, three-
dimensional display offers 360deg image rotation
through touch controls, along with a zoom function
for closer examination of the seabed and potential
obstacles.
FEATURE FORWARD LOOKING SONAR