The WASSP S-Series Multibeam is a sophisticated system designed for survey and mapping applications, offering a range of models with varying capabilities to suit different operational needs. The series includes the S3 (WMB1320), S3i (WMB1320i), and WMB3250, each tailored for specific performance requirements in marine environments.
Function Description
The WASSP S-Series Multibeam systems are primarily used for generating detailed bathymetric data, creating point clouds, and providing advanced sonar functionalities for underwater mapping and surveying. These systems are capable of producing high-resolution 3D models of the seafloor, detecting objects, and aiding in navigation and research. Key functionalities include:
- Bathymetric Surveying: Accurate measurement of water depth and seafloor topography.
- Point Cloud Generation: Creation of dense 3D point clouds for detailed visualization and analysis of underwater features.
- Sounder Functionality: Basic depth sounding capabilities.
- Sidescan Sonar: Imaging of the seafloor for object detection and habitat mapping.
- 3D and 2D Mapping: Generation of both three-dimensional and two-dimensional representations of the underwater environment.
- Sonar/Polar Imaging: Advanced sonar imaging modes for various applications.
- Backscatter Data Collection: Measurement of acoustic energy reflected from the seafloor, providing insights into sediment type and seafloor characteristics.
- RTK Tide Integration: Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) tide correction for enhanced depth accuracy.
- IHO Standard 1A Validation: Compliance with International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) standards for hydrographic surveys, ensuring data quality and accuracy for specific models.
Important Technical Specifications
The S-Series models share some common features but also have distinct specifications:
Models and Frequencies:
- S3 (WMB1320) & S3i (WMB1320i): Operate on a wideband frequency of 136-184 kHz.
- WMB3250: Operates at a fixed frequency of 160 kHz.
Transceiver Type:
- S3 & S3i: Utilize a DRX (Digital Receiver/Transmitter) transceiver.
- WMB3250: Uses a BTxR transceiver.
Transducers Supported:
- All models (S3, S3i, WMB3250) support the WMB-160 transducer.
IMU Supported:
- All models require an external Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) for motion compensation.
- Depth (Metres):
- S3 & S3i: Up to 150 metres.
- WMB3250: Up to 200 metres.
- Swath Width: All models offer a swath width of 120 degrees.
- Max Vertical Resolution (CM):
- S3 & S3i: 3.9 cm.
- WMB3250: 7.5 cm.
- Beam Width PS (Port/Starboard): All models have a beam width of 4.4 degrees.
- Beam Width FA (Fore/Aft): All models have a beam width of 3.2 degrees.
Sensors Connectivity:
- S3 & S3i: DRX connectivity.
- WMB3250: PC connectivity.
Power Supply Unit (PSU):
- S3 & S3i: 9-32VDC.
- WMB3250: 24VDC.
Minimum PC Specifications (for S3 models, not WMB3250):
- Operating System (OS):
- Minimum: Windows 7, 8.1, 10.
- Recommended: Windows 8.1, 10.
- CPU:
- Minimum: 2GHz Base Frequency, 2/4 Cores/Threads.
- Recommended: 2GHz Base Frequency, 4/4 Cores/Threads.
- Memory:
- Minimum: 4GB.
- Recommended: 8GB.
- Graphics:
- Minimum & Recommended: DirectX 11.
- Screen Resolution:
- Minimum: 1024 x 768.
- Recommended: FHD 1920 x 1080.
- HDD/SDD:
- Minimum: 250GB.
- Recommended: 2 TB.
- Network:
- Ethernet: GbE (Gigabit Ethernet).
- Wi-Fi: 802.11ac.
Equipment Dimensions:
- DRX (Transceiver Unit):
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 377 x 260 x 132 mm.
- Weight: 8.3 kg.
- Transducer:
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 328 x 163 x 94 mm.
- Weight: 15 kg (cable dependent).
Usage Features
The WASSP S-Series offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance usability and data acquisition:
- Equi-Distant Mapping: The WMB3250 model supports equi-distant mapping, ensuring uniform data point spacing across the survey area, which is beneficial for certain types of analysis. The S3 and S3i models do not support this feature.
- Waterfall (Point Cloud) Display: The WMB3250 provides a waterfall display of the point cloud, offering a continuous visual representation of the seafloor. This feature is not available on the S3 and S3i.
- RTK Tide Integration: Available as an upgrade option for S3 and S3i, and standard for WMB3250, this feature allows for real-time kinematic tide corrections, significantly improving the accuracy of depth measurements by compensating for tidal variations.
- 3D and 2D Mapping: All models are capable of generating both 3D and 2D representations of the underwater environment, providing versatile visualization options for different applications.
- Sonar/Polar Functionality: All models support advanced sonar and polar imaging, enabling users to adapt the system to various survey requirements, from detailed object detection to wide-area mapping.
- Backscatter Data: Backscatter data collection is an upgrade option for S3 and S3i, providing valuable information about seafloor sediment composition. This feature is not available on the WMB3250.
- WASSP Wireless Supported: All S-Series models support WASSP wireless connectivity, facilitating remote operation and data transfer.
- IHO Standard 1A Validation: The WMB3250 model is IHO Standard 1A validated, indicating its suitability for the most demanding hydrographic surveys requiring high accuracy and data quality. The S3 and S3i models are not listed as IHO 1A validated.
- Connectivity Ports (DRX Hardware): The DRX unit features various connectivity ports, including N2k, FAN, RS232, RS422, LAN, POWER, 0183, and PPS/KP, ensuring broad compatibility with other marine electronics and sensors.
Maintenance Features
While specific maintenance features are not extensively detailed, the design and connectivity options suggest ease of maintenance:
- External IMU Support: The reliance on an external IMU for all models allows for flexible integration and potential for easier replacement or upgrade of the IMU component without affecting the core multibeam system.
- Modular Design: The separation of the DRX unit and transducer, along with various connectivity ports, implies a modular design that could simplify troubleshooting and component replacement.
- DRX Installation Manual: The manual explicitly states that for more information and dimensional drawings, users should refer to the DRX installation manual, which likely contains detailed instructions for installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- PC-Based System: For the S3 and S3i models, the use of a PC-based system for operation means that software updates and diagnostics can be managed through standard computing practices.
- Power Supply: The use of standard DC power inputs (9-32VDC for S3/S3i and 24VDC for WMB3250) allows for straightforward power management and integration into existing vessel power systems.
The WASSP S-Series Multibeam systems are robust tools for professional marine surveying, offering a range of capabilities from basic depth sounding to advanced 3D seafloor mapping, with options to meet diverse operational and regulatory requirements.