EchoPilot is always trying to revolutionize forward-looking sonar technology and is currently working on multiple projects involving autonomous vessels, sonar for amphibious vehicles and new ways to use Forward Looking Sonar. The possibilities for how and where this technology could work are endless, which is the foundation for incredible research and fantastic development.
Their focus is on safety and collision avoidance devices with their sonar products showing any potential dangers ahead like rocks, coral reefs, sand banks etc. With the patent real-time sonar technology, you will be able to instantly see any dangers ahead and instantly see if your course of action avoids the ahead dangers.
Forward-Looking Sonar is a navigational tool that allows the captain to see a live image of the seabed, up to 200 meters, ahead of the vessel. Captains typically rely on navigational tools that only gives them historical data but with Forward-Looking Sonar captains will be able to get live data of the seabed in front of their vessel. The technology ensures safe navigation in all areas of the world.
The world’s seabeds are constantly changing due to the climate and currents. It is changing at such a rapid pace that the world’s sea charts are not 100% accurate and captains must rely on other navigational tools alongside sea charts for safe navigation. Forward-Looking Sonar is a navigational tool that will be able to detect any changes in the seabed or any dangerous objects in front of the vessel. It will allow the captain to detect a dangerous object, which is not shown on the sea charts, and steer clear of that object.
Installation of Forward-Looking Sonar
Forward-Looking Sonar is not like your typical sidescan, fishfinder or depth sounder. The transducers need a clear line of sight underneath the vessel to be able to give the correct live images to the captain. EchoPilot has developed a specially designed transducer that allows for easy installation in any hull type.
The choice of the transducer position will have a major effect on final performance so the installer needs to carefully consider all the factors to provide it with optimum performance. The transducers need to be 100% vertically installed, in order to do this you might need the use of a fairing block as shown in the picture. They should also be installed in front of any other sounders to avoid interference and away from areas of the hull where air bubbles are generated.
The EchoPilot team will always be available to assist installers with the most optimal installation location for their specific hull type. EchoPilot specializes in Forward-Looking Sonar and has helped develop this technology since the end of the second world war. Forward-Looking Sonar was a technology that was only available for military use. EchoPilot was the first company to develop this technology to be able to be used on leisure boats.
EchoPilot will be showcasing the newest version of their FLS 3D, for the first time, at this year’s SYTN Conference.
To find out more about what EchoPilot can do for you please contact them on:
Website: www.echopilot.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/echopilotfls/
