Subsea Imaging Systems & 3D Imaging

Subsea imaging systems and 3D imaging technologies provide critical data for various ocean scientific and environmental purposes, allowing for detailed exploration and analysis of underwater environments.

They deliver the detailed visual and spatial data needed for research, monitoring, and technological development in oceanography. By integrating various imaging techniques and deploying sophisticated underwater imaging payloads, scientists and engineers can capture detailed images and three-dimensional representations of submerged objects, seafloor topography, and aquatic life. 

Types of Subsea Imaging Systems

The term subsea imaging systems refers to the broad range of equipment and techniques used to visualize and capture images beneath the water’s surface. These often integrate various technologies to provide comprehensive visualization solutions for underwater exploration. Underwater imaging payloads can combine sonar, cameras, and laser scanning into a single payload.

HydroScan towed side scan sonar by SatLab Geosolutions

Sonar Systems
Sonar (Sound Navigation and Ranging) uses sound waves to detect and locate objects underwater. Sonar can produce detailed images of the seafloor and submerged objects by emitting sound pulses and analyzing the returning echoes.

Underwater Cameras
High-resolution cameras, often encased in waterproof housings, are deployed to capture photographic or video images of underwater environments. These cameras can be attached to remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), or mounted on stationary platforms.

Laser Scanning Systems
These systems use laser beams to scan and create high-resolution images of underwater structures and landscapes. By measuring the time it takes for the laser to return after hitting an object, a detailed image can be constructed.

Multibeam Sonar Systems
These systems use multiple sonar beams to create wide-swath images of the seafloor. They are particularly useful for creating bathymetric maps, which show the depth and shape of the underwater terrain.

Long-range subsea imaging system Observer & Nova Pro by Voyis

Photogrammetry
This technique involves taking multiple photographs from different angles and using software to stitch them together into a 3D model. Photogrammetry is often used for detailed documentation of small areas or objects, such as corals or archaeological finds.

Applications of Subsea 3D Imaging

Subsea 3D imaging involves creating three-dimensional models of underwater environments or objects and can be used extensively in offshore, and oil and gas industries for planning and inspection purposes.

Oil and Gas Industry
Subsea imaging systems help in mapping the seafloor, identifying potential drilling sites, and monitoring underwater infrastructure such as pipelines and drilling rigs. Regular inspections of subsea assets like pipelines, risers, and wellheads are crucial to ensure operational integrity and safety.

Marine and Offshore Construction
Before the construction of underwater structures such as bridges, tunnels, or wind farms, detailed surveys of the seabed are required. Imaging systems provide real-time data and visual feedback during the construction of offshore platforms and underwater installations.

Telecommunications
Underwater cables are critical for global communication networks. Subsea imaging is used to plan cable routes, monitor the laying process, and inspect cables for maintenance.

Defense and Security
Subsea imaging systems are employed for monitoring and securing naval bases, detecting underwater threats, and ensuring the safety of maritime operations. Advanced imaging is used to locate and neutralize underwater mines and other threats.

Renewable Energy
Subsea imaging is crucial for site selection, construction, and maintenance of offshore wind turbines. These systems help in mapping and monitoring the deployment of tidal and wave energy converters.

Environmental Monitoring and Research
3D imaging can capture detailed images of coral reefs, kelp forests, and other underwater habitats. This data is vital for monitoring ecosystem health, studying biodiversity, and understanding the impacts of climate change.

Subsea Imaging can assist in mapping the ocean floor, creating models to help scientists understand seafloor structures, such as ridges, valleys, and hydrothermal vents.

Fishing and Aquaculture
Imaging systems help in assessing fish populations, understanding their behavior, and optimizing fishing practices. Monitoring of fish farms and aquaculture installations ensures the health of marine species and the efficiency of operations.

Archaeology
Detailed 3D models of shipwrecks or submerged archaeological sites enable researchers to study these areas without disturbing them. These models help in the preservation and analysis of historical artifacts.