Multi-beam Echo Sounders
A multi-beam echosounder (MBES) is a device typically used by hydrographic surveyors to determine the depth of water and the nature of the seabed. MBES systems emit acoustic waves in a fan shape beneath the transceiver and is often referred to as swathe bathymetry. The swathe from a MBES allows large areas of seabed to be captured efficiently.
Processing of MBES requires consideration and collation of information for multiple sensors which may include but not be limited to, heading, position and orientation, draft, water temperature and tides.
MBES often shows up amazing natural structures that are formed on the seabed due to the natural action of wind, wave, and water motion. This example, provide by Exodus Hydrographic Survey, which includes surface contours, is a fantastic example of seabed sand waves.
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