SINCE 1991
AquaCoustic Remote Technologies specializes in inspections of underwater structures such as trunk or mainline sewers, hydro dams, reservoirs, ports and bridge abutments using a wide range of technologies to create accurate condition assessments. AquaCoustic principals have over 30 years experience in assessing underwater conditions. Our clients include many major civil engineering firms and municipalities throughout North America.
Ports survey deliverables
Each survey is documented in a report that is provided as a hard copy and includes a DVD/CD-ROM with drawings, tables and any video in digital form. The report includes:
- Discussion of findings
- Spreadsheets and databases
- Photographs
- Site safety procedures
- Quality control procedures
- Daily field reports
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Sonar profile data. Profile data is collected using a rotating pencil-beam sonar head. The beam can sweep 360º about its axis or sweep from side to side. Data can be gathered from the vertical face of a caisson and across the bottom. Real time data is displayed on the computer screen and gives the operator visual cues to data quality. If any anomalies are seen in the profiles, the survey can be modified to take them into account. The profiles are recorded. Using the positioning data, water elevation and pitch, roll and heading information, X, Y and Z data is produced and a 3D image can be built. Selected profiles may be included in the report. |
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Contour maps. The sonar data is rendered using various CAD programs. |
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3D imaging. The sonar XYZ data is rendered using various CAD programs. For small areas the collected sonar data is dense enough to create a 1/4 metre mesh, this helps us illustrate areas such as:
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Scanning sonar. Our scanning and side scan sonar can image the bottom or sides of structures. This can indicate type of material, scour patterns, position of construction joints, and type and size of debris. These images can be mosaic-ed and overlaid on the wire mesh 3D surface. |
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CAD drawings. We can also work with information supplied by the client. For instance, contoured X, Y and Z information acquired via our survey services can be inserted into a CAD drawing supplied by the client. |
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Sun-illuminated data. A sun- illuminated plan view of a collapsed pier and decking is shown on the right. Sun-illuminated data is helpful in certain situations. |
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XYZ data. The sonar profiles are recorded in our proprietary software which is used for quality control, post processing and outputs X,Y and Z files suitable for computer rendering. A CD ROM disk with AutoCAD drawings and other specified information is provided. |
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Video. A small pole mounted video camera can be used to capture images of areas of scour or to identify debris. For larger areas an ROV (remotely operated vehicle) would be used. These digital video survey images can form part of the report, if required. |
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How sonar works:
The sonar head, when positioned underwater, generates an acoustic pulse in a narrow pencil-type beam. The sound frequency and pulse can be modified to suit conditions. The sonar generates a single profile line on a computer monitor; the line accurately describes a cross-section of the targeted area. The profile data points are calculated using the angle of the sonar head, the speed of sound in water and the travel time. When operating within ±45°, the overall accuracy is considered to be better than 0.5% of range. Through the use of software programs this data is translated into XYZ positions and can be plotted in a variety of formats. The primary purpose of the profiling sonar is as a quantitative measuring tool.
Sonar head with emanating sound pulse and return echoes.
see flash video 