Bathymetry refers to the study and measurement of the underwater topography or features of the Earth’s seabed. It is analogous to topography, which measures land features, but bathymetry specifically deals with the depths and shapes of the ocean floor. The primary focus of bathymetry is to map and measure the varying depths and structures beneath the water’s surface.
At Centerline, bathymetric data is typically collected using Echo Sounding. This method involves sending sound waves from a surface vessel to the ocean floor and measuring the time it takes for the sound waves to return. The depth is then calculated based on the time delay.
With over 10 years of data collection experience in the field, Centerline Geomatics is pleased to offer comprehensive bathymetric survey services tailored to the unique needs of Western Canada’s diverse aquatic environments. Utilizing state-of-the-art sonar technology and advanced data processing techniques, we provide high-precision depth measurements, seabed mapping, and sub-bottom profiling for a range of applications, including environmental assessments, infrastructure planning, resource management, and hydrographic charting. Our experienced team is equipped to handle projects in both freshwater and marine settings, from remote lakes and rivers to coastal waters, ensuring reliable, accurate data to support informed decision-making and regulatory compliance.
Centerline’s Bathymetry Process
1. Mission Planning
Field operators develop the waypoint USV mission. The mission parameters are based on the topography of the surveyed water feature and the target data resolution. The mission is uploaded to the USV.
2. USV Deployment
The USV is launched, and the waypoint mission initiated. While the USV autonomously carries out the mission, field operators monitor progress form the safety of the shore.
3. Manual Data Collection
Any locations where the autonomous mission was unable to collect data are surveyed by manual operation of the USV, using a remote control. This is often required in tight areas and along the shore, where the water is shallow.
4. UAV/GNSS Shoreline Survey (Optional)
Shoreline topo data is collected by means of a UAV (drone), or by traditional GNSS survey.
5. Survey Verification (Optional)
Survey data is cross-checked against available, existing As-Built drawings and data.
6. Data Processing and Reporting
Survey, UAV, and USV data is processed and the final reports are prepared.
Deliverables
• Plan view drawings of water body and surrounding areas.
• Cross-sectional profiles of the water body, illustrating ground elevation, water elevation, depth of the water, and sludge depth (depending on soil conditions).
• Drone imagery (orthomosaic) of the shoreline area, with contours.
• Digital 3D surface model of the water body bottom.
Equipment
Meet CHCNAV’s APACHE 3 – a compact hydrographic drone.
The APACHE 3 is a portable shallow-draft hull with a single beam echo sounder for bathymetric surveys of lakes, inland rivers, and coastal areas. The master control unit provides seamless 4G communication, removing the limitations of traditional network bridge base stations and transmission distances, making field work easier
The APACHE 3 is available for rent. Contact us for more information.