NORBIT Subsea develops ultra-compact wideband multibeam sonar systems, such as the WINGHEAD B57S, designed for use on both subsea and surface platforms.
The company has highlighted the impressive range capabilities and advanced performance of the WINGHEAD B57S multibeam sonar. Compact and lightweight, the WINGHEAD B57S echo sounder is ideal for deployment across various vessel sizes.
Engineered for multibeam mapping in shallow to medium depth waters, the WINGHEAD B57S offers a unique blend of portability, low energy consumption, and high-resolution output. It features frequency versatility and excellent long-range performance.
Despite operating at a lower frequency than systems used exclusively for shallow water, the sonar maintains a compact form factor, allowing flexibility in deployment across different platforms.
System Configuration
- NORBIT WINGHEAD B57S
- Applanix OEM OceanMaster GNSS/INS, with GNSS electronics integrated into the topside unit
- Separate IMU and embedded INS software suite
- Built-in sound speed sensor
- NORBIT PORTUS pole mount
WINGHEAD B57S Overview
The WINGHEAD B57S is a compact multibeam sonar optimized for surveying shallow to medium depth waters, providing long-range coverage with high resolution.
The sonar frequency is adjustable from 80–240 kHz with an operational range beyond 1250 meters, and a beam width of 2.0×2.0° at 100 kHz/1.0×1.0° at 200 kHz.
The WINGHEAD B57S delivers 1024 focused beams per ping, full motion compensation (roll, pitch, yaw) for consistent coverage in varying sea states, and a dual Swath mode for a total of 2048 beams, increasing density and reducing survey time.
Deployment Using the PORTUS Pole
Due to its compact design, the full system—comprising sonar unit, cable, and topside component—can be packed into a single Pelicase for easy transport. Unlike many traditional lower-frequency systems that require separate cables for transmitting, receiving, and sound speed measurement, the WINGHEAD B57S streamlines deployment with a single cable connection.
With typical power consumption under 95W, the system combines high performance with energy efficiency. Its ease of deployment and recovery makes it equally suitable for temporary use on smaller boats and for permanent installation on larger vessels.
Summary
The WINGHEAD B57S provides an effective solution for multibeam mapping in shallow and medium water depths. It brings together a compact design, low power requirements, and detailed data capture.
With flexible frequency operation and range exceeding 1250 meters, the system is suitable for varied depth conditions. It is lightweight, simple to install, and supports standalone use or integration with a GNSS/INS subsystem from NORBIT.
With Dual Swath capability and full motion stabilization, the WINGHEAD B57S achieves dense and consistent seabed coverage, even in dynamic marine conditions.
