We’re considering some forward facing multibeam (FFMB) options because we have found it in a job specification recently.
I’m hoping to learn from other users what applications they have found FFMB useful for before we invest. I understand it assists navigation/obstacle avoidance in turbid water similar to the Ping360 and I recall this thread where it has been used for S&R. Has anyone used them for structural inspections for example?
Any other applications where FFMB has been important?
Gav - I’d point you towards the Sound Metris ARIS (expensive) for structual inspections. The higher frequency Oculus M3000d model may also provide enough detail but I do not have direct experience with those models. ARIS Sonar Oculus M3000d
We also are in the early stages of releasing our new, low-cost, FFMB called the ECHO. Entry level priced but still provides a very useful details (not for structual inspections). www.Sonoptix.com ECHO Videos
Hi Gav -
I’d checkout Cerulean sonar’s latest offering - the omniscan. With two, you get position data as if from a DVL, and in general it acts similar to a combination of a scanning sonar and a multi beam, in that the scan is swept around from the motion of the vehicle itself. I’ve not used it first-hand yet, but it looks quite impressive and the team at Cerulean are all certifiable geniuses!