A state-of-the-art system developed by the Applied Physics Laboratory of the University of Washington is being adapted and enhanced by the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) engineers from the Information Technology Laboratory, Environmental Laboratory, and Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory to help with inspection of underwater structures in turbid water and aid in surveys of endangered marine species. This high-resolution acoustic imaging system includes an acoustic video camera with a 1- to 1.8-MGHz range, a boat with environmental controls, at least one remotely operated vehicle, global positioning system, roll-and-pitch equipment, and side-scanner sonar. In laboratory demonstrations, the acoustic camera provided images at high enough resolution to distinguish between a catfish and a sturgeon. In field demonstrations conducted jointly with ERDC and the U.S. Army Engineer Districts, St. Louis and Louisville, the camera allowed clear viewing of small (about 1/2 inch) structural details of steel and concrete structures in turbid water. |
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