Underwater Sensors
Underwater sensors come in many different varieties. When traveling underwater, many factors such as pressure and depth need to be considered in order to preserve equipment, contain artifacts, and protect the environment and marine life. Each sensor provides a specific role in keeping any AUV and submerged structures safe.
Below are just a handful of sensors that are utilized for marine exploration.
Pressure Sensors
Pressure sensors can be used in two different ways, one being a depth sensor, while the other is use in dredging and mining applications. Each consisting of a diaphragm encased inside of a corrosion and abrasion resistant housing; the sensor can measure pressures ranging from 0 to 100 bar at a depth of over 1000 meters of seawater.
Proximity Sensors
Proximity sensors allow autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to navigate when there is little to no visible light. These sensors have close ranges, up to 50mm, which allows for the AUV to get close to objects without coming in contact with them and damaging the observed artifact or the AUV itself.
Inclinometers
Inclinometers are used to measure the pitch and roll of underwater objects. Applications for this type of sensor is in laying underwater pipes to ensure then lay completely flat and helping AUVs maintain the correct orientation.
Rotation Sensors
Rotation sensors are utilized for measuring rotatory displacement in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction. When incorporated into an AUV this sensor is needed for the accuracy of the position for this system during its deployment.
Wire Length Measurement Sensors
Wire length measurement sensors are used to analyze the stroke length of any moving component underwater. For example, it a subsurface wind turbine is bobbing in the water, a wire length measurement sensor might be used to determine the height change as the turbine reaches the crest and trough of a wave.