FD-MB360 Multi-beam Panoramic Sonar

FD-MB360 Multi-beam Panoramic Sonar

1. Introduction

FD-MB360 is a multi-beam sonar with 360 degrees omnidirectional imaging capability.

This acoustic sonar system functions as an omnidirectional imaging sonar for underwater and aquatic target detection, revolutionizing traditional forward-looking sonar applications. When used for underwater target search, the carrier can scan surrounding targets without turning. For monitoring moving underwater targets, it achieves frame rates exceeding 30fps while detecting targets from all directions simultaneously, significantly enhancing sonar detection efficiency.

This sonar model offers two frequency options. The low-frequency variant provides extended detection range but features a wider vertical beam angle and slightly lower resolution, making it ideal for SLAM and target detection applications. The high-frequency variant, while offering closer range, delivers higher resolution with a narrower beam angle, perfect for close-range precision imaging. In addition to omnidirectional detection, the sonar head incorporates a collision avoidance sensor that measures the distance to targets ahead, enabling both collision avoidance and range measurement.

The acoustic sonar system features a dedicated pipeline configuration specifically designed for pipeline detection. With a vertical opening angle of approximately 2 degrees, this configuration enables high-speed 3D spatial scanning using an omnidirectional multi-beam bathymeter, while constructing spatial models through carrier movement. Typical applications include pipeline inspection, tank detection, and SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping). Compared to traditional mechanical scanning sonar, the pipeline configuration achieves detection speeds up to 50 frames per second without compromising resolution or detection time. This allows pipeline robots to perform high-speed, high-precision operations with detection efficiency hundreds of times greater than mechanical scanning sonar. In SLAM applications, AUV/ROV systems can construct comprehensive scene reconstructions within tens of milliseconds instead of seconds or tens of seconds, significantly enhancing their on-site perception capabilities.

2. Technical Specifications

2.1. Technical Specifications of Imaging Sonar

(1)Center frequency: 1.2MHz or 1.8MHz (software switchable); other frequencies are customizable.

(2)Detection range (3):50m (1.2MHz) and 25m (1.8MHz).

(3)Range: 1 to 60 meters, continuously adjustable;

(4)Minimum resolution: 2.5mm;

(5)Horizontal center beam width (1):1.5° (1.2MHz) and 1° (1.8MHz);

(6)Level detection opening angle: 360°;

(7)Vertical detection opening angle (1.8MHz): 12° (standard type) and 2° (pipeline type).

(8)Vertical detection opening angle (1.2MHz): 20°;

(9)Refresh rate: up to 30Hz (standard model, 1.8MHz, range <20m); 50Hz (pipeline model, 1.8MHz, range <10m)

(10)Number of beams: 512;

(11)Transmission mode: CW or CHIRP, automatically selected;

(12)Working blind spot: =10cm; Note:

1. The horizontal 3dB energy distribution angle of the target formed by the horizontal and vertical center points of the sonar is allowed to have an error of +10%/-30%.

2. The sonar's field of view. Large targets within this angle can be observed by sonar, but the resolution, clarity, and detection range at the edges may be lower than at the center.

3. The detection range of high reflectivity objects such as embankment and bridge pier in seawater under good hydrological conditions is about 1~2 times of that in fresh water under the same conditions.

2.2. Collision Avoidance/Ranging Sonar Technical Specifications

(1)Center frequency: 2.2MHz;

(2)Detection range: 20 meters;

(3)Range resolution: 1 cm;

(4)beam width: 2°;

(5)refresh rate: up to 10Hz;

(6)The blind spot of distance measurement is 30cm.

2.3. General Sonar Indicators

(1)Working depth: 300 meters;

(2)Maximum operational speed: 6 knots. Exceeding this speed has no impact on usage, but may reduce the detection range (design specification).

2.4. Built-in Sensors (All the following are design specifications)

(1)The outputs the yaw, pitch, and roll angles of the sonar.

(2)Sensor dimensions: 3-axis acceleration, 3-axis angular velocity, and 3-axis magnetic field;

(3)Resolution: 0.05 degrees;

(4)Accuracy: Pitch and roll angles are approximately 0.1 degrees, while yaw angle is about 1 degree (calibrated and free from magnetic interference).

(5)Measurement range: yaw and roll angles: +/-180deg, pitch angle: +/-90deg;

2.5. Electrical Interfaces

(1)Input voltage: 18 to 40VDC;

(2)Power consumption: The average power is approximately 20W.

(3)Communication interface: 1100Mbps Ethernet port for transmitting sonar data and control signals.

(4)Communication Protocol: 'General Communication Protocol for Forward-looking Sonar Ethernet';

(5)External connectors: 1 waterproof connector for transmitting network, synchronization, and power signals;

2.6. Mechanical Specifications

(1)Dimensions: approximately 65 (±1) × 204 (±2) mm (diameter × height, excluding connectors and cables);

(2)Weight (air/water, excluding cable): approximately 0.95kg (air) and 0.3kg (water).

(3)Installation: Secure using the mounting holes on the top surface or clamp the device.

(4)Outer shell material: aluminum alloy (customizable with titanium alloy or 316 stainless steel);

(5)Surface treatment: hard oxidation for aluminum alloy surfaces, while titanium alloy or stainless steel surfaces are only passivated.

(6)Internal non-magnetic design;

(7)The surface is smooth without burrs or sharp edges.

2.7. Data Interaction and Display Control

Users can control the sonar device through the following methods:

(1)Our proprietary SapphireViewer display control software enables comprehensive sonar operation, compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.

(2) Access the built-in web server of the sonar directly through browsers like IE, Chrome, Firefox, or Safari to perform display and control operations. It supports multiple platforms and operating systems, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. The limitation is the inability to record or play back local data.

(3)Stream Sonar's content via the streaming media player;

(4)The company provides an SDK, enabling users to develop their own software for operating sonar.

2.8. Technical Specifications of "Seven Properties"

2.8.1. Reliability

The mean time between failures：MTBF ≥ 1000 hours (design specification).

2.8.2. Security

(1)Functional modules should be designed for easy replacement and structural disassembly.

(2)Provide all necessary spare parts, accessories, and consumables based on operational and maintenance requirements.

(3)Equipped with dedicated transport containers for easy transportation and storage.

2.8.3. Testability

Features a power-on self-check function, which enables fault localization and analysis to pinpoint the affected functional module when a malfunction occurs.

2.8.4. Maintainability

(1)The sonar lacks user repairability, requiring either factory return or complete replacement after failure.

(2)For users, the manufacturer will provide free repairs for any non-human-induced or improper-use failures occurring within the first year of purchase.

(3)Manufacturers provide lifetime warranty and maintenance services.

2.8.5. Safety

(1)The features a power failure protection mechanism, ensuring that unexpected power loss does not compromise the performance of the forward-looking sonar. After a power outage, a 10-second delay before power restoration is implemented, maintaining normal sonar operation.

(2)Equipped with high-voltage protection measures, and its internal sonar generates transient high voltage, which poses no safety risk to operators during normal debugging and operation.

(3)When the transducer array is submerged in water, the device can be powered on normally without damaging the transducer array.

2.8.6. Environmental Adaptability

(1)Operating temperature: -10℃ to +50℃ (design specifications);

(2)Storage temperature: -40℃ to +70℃ (design specifications);

(3)The design should be simple in structure and appearance, provided that the functional requirements and intended usage conditions are met.

(4)Select electronic components, wires, and standard parts that are resistant to extreme temperatures to meet environmental temperature requirements.

(5)All connectors mounted on the circuit board are secured to prevent loosening caused by shock or vibration.

2.8.7. Electromagnetic Compatibility Requirements

(1)The electromagnetic compatibility design meets the self-compatibility of the system;

(2)Meet shielding requirements without interfering with other devices in the same system or electromagnetic environment, nor being affected by them.

3. Overall appearance and dimensions of the machine

The sonar features an integrated cylindrical design with a diameter of 65mm and height of 204mm (excluding connectors). For pipeline detection applications, the sonar should be installed horizontally, where the imaging transducer performs vertical cross-sectional scanning while the collision avoidance transducer prevents collisions with the carrier's front. For target detection or SLAM applications, the sonar should be installed vertically, with the imaging transducer conducting horizontal omnidirectional scanning and the collision avoidance transducer measuring the height of the seabed (or water surface).

4. Connectors and Definitions

4.1. Connector and Description

The external cable adapter socket is mounted on the rear of the sonar system, with connectors specified in the table below. These connectors feature wet-insertion capability.

4.2. Connector Pin Definitions

5. Coatings, Markings, Packaging and Transportation

5.1. Surface Treatment and Corrosion Protection

(1)The aluminum alloy model features a hard oxide surface that resists short-term seawater exposure. However, if the coating is damaged, seawater contact may cause corrosion. In such cases, it is recommended to return the product to the manufacturer for repainting or shell replacement.

(2)Titanium alloy models can withstand prolonged seawater immersion. However, seawater may gradually seep into the sonar's sealant, causing irreversible damage. For products requiring long-term underwater operation, please specify this requirement during ordering. Our company will then employ specialized materials and manufacturing processes.

5.2. Packaging and Labeling

(1)The sonar uses an aviation-grade box as its outer packaging, offering shockproof, waterproof, and drop-resistant features.

(2)The sonar model and specifications are printed on both the sonar surface and the packaging box, with a sonar nameplate affixed to the exterior of the box.

(3)The package includes: the sonar host, a water-tight cable (standard 5-meter length with sonar connector), and the instruction manual.

5.3. Transportation

Sonar can be used for ordinary railway, highway and air transport