Kongsberg Mesotech announces the introduction of the M3 MultiMode Multibeam Sonar™. The M3 sonar is characterised by truly innovative design, versatility, and ease of use in a light, compact design. The first two models of the M3 series are intended for the underwater vehicle market, in particular, work class ROV operations.
According to Peter Fox, PhD, principal systems engineer at Kongsberg Mesotech and leader of the development team, “The M3 sonar is a radical departure from conventional multibeams; it has a simple, elegant user interface driving a versatile multichannel sonar transceiver capable of extreme spatial and temporal agility, highly innovative composite transmit and receive transducers, a state-of-the-art-signal processing with true time delays, dynamic focussing, and pulse compression, all orchestrated to produce ‘the full picture’ in stunning quality.”
The M3 Multimode Multibeam Sonar combines imaging, profiling and true zoom modes in a single design. Short range (0.2m) and long range (100m) imaging capability plus multiple true zoom windows are now possible. Dynamically variable bandwidth provides optimised images and target detection with high resolution and enhanced shadows.
ROV operators can now take advantage of the high refresh rate of conventional multibeam technology or tradeoff refresh rate for enhanced image quality modes, providing detailed images of exceptional quality. The M3 sonar enables operators to use the same sonar for obstacle avoidance at 100m range and close work in zero visibility conditions. Enhanced image quality modes and true zoom windows provide high resolution and high signal-to-noise ratios where the operators need it, with centimetre range resolution and beamwidths less than 1°. The sonar is available in either 500m or 4000m depth rated versions for shallow or deep water applications.
The M3 sonar provides the sophistication and performance levels formerly found only in high end multibeam sonar equipment, and does so in a compact package of only 3.8kg dry weight, with an 18cm diameter and 14cm length. Compact deep water rotators from Kongsberg enable operators to aim this compact multibeam where they want it.
The M3 sonar employs a new user interface with an elegant simplicity that provides intuitive control based on the task at hand. The M3 sonar provides an unmatched viewing volume for navigation and obstacle avoidance with a 120° (horizontal) and 30° (vertical) coverage and a maximum range of 100m. The vertical coverage is also adjustable to suit the operator’s requirements. Ethernet telemetry is standard.
