Motion Compensation of Side-Scan Sonar (SSS)

Motion Compensation of Side-Scan Sonars (SSS)

Side-scan sonar produces high-resolution acoustic images of the seafloor by measuring the intensity of returns across a wide swath on either side of the vessel. Although it does not directly measure depth, the positional accuracy and image quality of a side-scan survey are heavily dependent on accurate, real-time motion data.

Market-leading Motion Reference Unit for Side-Scan Sonar (SSS)

The MRU Marine SW is easily mounted on towfish, AUVs, or survey vessels, while the titanium MRU Subsea, rated to 6000 metres and weighing just 1.6 kg, delivers high-accuracy motion data directly on deep-water platforms for the most demanding search and inspection surveys.

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Our high accuracy, compact and affordable MRUs

MRU Marine

Usage area

50 m depth, IP 68

Heave accuracy

5 cm or 5.0%

Roll & Pitch accuracy

3000±0.05°
6000±0.02°
9000±0.01°

Connectors

Lemo or SubConn 8 or SubConn 16

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MRU Subsea

Usage area

6000 m depth

Heave accuracy

5 cm or 5.0%

Roll & Pitch accuracy

3000±0.05°
6000±0.02°
9000±0.01°

Connectors

SubConn 8

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What our customers say

"The accuracy, weight, and form factor of Norwegian Subsea MRUs are unmatched."

Gabriel Walton, Technical Director, Ultrabeam Hydrographic

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"The Norwegian Subsea MRU was like a needle – smooth and precise."

Sid Hynes, Master Mariner, Owner and Skipper of 'Best Kind'

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Latest case studies

Ultrabeam Hydrographic

Ultrabeam Hydrographic enhances high-resolution 3D surveys with Norwegian Subsea Motion Reference Units

Ultrabeam, a specialist in hydrographic survey and underwater inspection, relies heavily on precise motion compensation to ensure accuracy in their 3D mapping projects. By integrating Norwegian Subsea’s compact, calibration-free Motion Reference Units (MRUs), Ultrabeam has significantly improved its survey data accuracy, while enjoying simplified integration, and enhanced operational efficiency in diverse surveying environments, from bridges, to offshore installations.

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Sid Hynes, Master Mariner

Canadian shipwreck hunters unlock new levels of multibeam performance with Norwegian Subsea Motion Reference Unit

Motion Reference Units (MRUs) are crucial in bathymetric survey technology, providing precise motion compensation data to ensure reliable and accurate seafloor mapping. For users like Captain Sid Hynes, a seasoned mariner exploring Newfoundland’s shipwreck-rich waters, the Norwegian Subsea MRU has redefined what is possible, delivering exceptional performance even in incredibly challenging conditions.

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WASSP Boosts Multibeam Accuracy for Marine Survey and Fish Finding with Norwegian Subsea Motion Reference Units

Norwegian Subsea’s Motion Reference Units (MRUs) are now available integrated with WASSP’s multibeam sonar systems, offering enhanced motion data accuracy and performance for offshore applications.

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