Current Projects

BathyBoat: Bathymetry Mapping and Analysis

BathyBoat

The University of Michigan, Marine Hydrodynamics Laboratory (MHL) in collaboration with the Michigan Tech Research Institute (MTRI) has designed, fabricated, and field tested a remotely controlled and electrically powered boat to conduct precision bathymetric surveys. Bathytboat a cost-effective water depth mapping tool, is ideal for use in restricted water bodies such as harbors, marinas (with and without moored boats), rivers, lakes, and shallow water estuaries. The boat is three feet in length and the boat, computer, and remote control land-based unit weigh less than 50 pounds. This allows for deployment from helicopter or ship in remote locations such as the North Slope of Alaska.

The Bathyboat is equipped with a high resolution GPS unit, a precision depth sounder, water temperature probe, conductivity sensor, data recording and storage device, and radio. The Bathyboat’s location is remotely controlled from shore or support boat while information from the boat is transmitted real-time and displayed on a laptop computer. Customized software shows GPS location, heading, speed, depth, temperature, conductivity, and battery life superimposed on a satellite image while out in the field, the Bathyboat data is also stored onboard for future use. Customized Geographic Information System (GIS) software creates shapefile, kml, and Microsoft Excel outputs of the data for display of the data in a GIS or in GoogleEarth. The Bathyboat has a battery life of approximately 3-7 hours depending on operating conditions. The normal operating speed is approximately 2 knots with a sampling rate of 1-3 seconds depending on the bottom substrate. Accuracy of the depth values are a tenth of a foot. The location accuracy of each depth value is better than 5 feet. The boat operates within line of sight.

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