Ping Digital Signal Processing Inc. products
Computed Angle-of-Arrival Transient Imaging (CAATI)
The 3DSS Sidescan Sonar employs patented Computed Angle-of-Arrival Transient Imaging (CAATI) to overcome many of the limitations inherient to traditional interferometric systems. This technology takes advantage of multi-channel phased transducer arrays developed in house, along with proprietary signal processing methodologies to resolve multiple simultaneous backscatter arrivals in real time. This technique dramatically reduces multipath interference which is a limiting factor in the performance of traditional interferometric systems. This also allows for water column targets to be resolved independent of seafloor backscatter and is integral in producing true 3D sidescan imagery and bathymetry complient with the highest IHO and CHS specifications.
True 3-D Sidescan
Utilizing the CAATI methedology, each backscatter arrival is given a range and angle value relative to the sonar head. These raw data points can then be visualized in a point cloud display, resulting in a geometrically correct 3D representation of a standard 2D side scan image. This point cloud can be rotated and manipulated to provide 3D views of object geometry in side scan imaging detail. This greatly enhances the capability for detection and identification of targets, and allows for easy measurement of target dimensions. Tools for displaying the 3D point cloud and measuring target dimensions are included in PingDSP`s software suite. To the left is a target of interest in both traditional and 3D side scan views. With the ability to colorize and rotate the 3D perspective, the true structure of the target is easily revealed.
3DSS - Bathymetry Engine
The 3DSS MBES Bathymetry Engine uses an advanced seabed detection algorithm to provide accurate, wide swath bathymetry using the dual head nature of the 3DSS sonar and its high resolution 3D imaging capability. The MBES Engine produces bathymetric soundings equivalent to an ideal multibeam sonar without the sidelobes, beam spreading, or asymmetrical beam sensitivity inherent in traditional beamsteering systems. With useable swath widths exceeding 12-16 times water depth, the 3DSS more than triples swath coverage of traditional MBES systems in water shallower than 20m and more than quadruples coverage in water depths less than 10m. The 3DSS MBES Engine provides user control of beamw geometry with beamwidths as narrow as 0.25°, beam densities to 1024 beams, and swath sector angles as wide as 220°.
Compact Dual Transducer 3D Sidescan
A compact dual transducer 3D sidescan for over-the-side pole-mounted and small AUV applications. The 3DSS-DX utilizes state-of-the-art acoustic transducer array technologies, SoftSonar™ electronics, and advanced signal processing techniques to produce superior swath bathymetry and 3D side-scan imagery. This patented technology is able to resolve multiple concurrent acoustic arrivals, separating backscatter from the seabed, sea-surface, water-column and multipath arrivals. The result is stunning 3D side-scan imagery spanning the entire water-column, and superior swath bathymetry from a compact, easy-to-use sonar.
Turnkey Hydrographic Survey Solution
3DSS-iDX incorporates a patented signal processing methodology that extends the single angle-of-arrival principle used in interferometric systems to accommodate multiple simultaneous backscatter arrivals (e.g. the seabed, sea surface, water-column, and multipath). The result is superior wide swath bathymetry and true 3D sidescan imaging and from a compact, easy-to-use sonar. The iDX-450 integrates SVT and MRU sensors into the sonar head for turnkey operation. A Universal Sonar Interface Unit provides ultra-portable, easy operation with just a laptop and a battery or easy interface to external MRU, GNSS and INS systems on a fully equipped survey launch or ASV.
Auv Integration Package
The 3DSS-DX-450 AUV integration package is a flexible, compact dual transducer sonar package configurable to unmanned platforms requiring high resolution 3D imagery. 3DSS-DX-450-AUV incorporates a patented signal processing methodology that extends the single angle-of-arrival principle used in interferometric systems to accommodate multiple simultaneous backscatter arrivals (e.g. the seabed, sea surface, water-column, and multipath). The result is superior wide swath bathymetry and true 3D sidescan imaging and from a compact, easy-to-use sonar. The DX-450-AUV provides multi-angle imaging to unmanned platforms over ultra-wide swath. Low logistics operation and low power requirements make the 3DSS-DX-450 AUV package the perfect sonar to provide wide swath 3D imagery on unmanned platforms from the surf zone to 4km below the surface.