Mine search mission planning for high definition sonar system - selection of space imaging equipment for a small AUV

Basic problem in design of an AUV as a platform that will be used for detailed area search, is selection of space imaging equipment. It is followed by selection of navigation equipment required to achieve high resolution picture of searched area. As indicated in our former presentations, we are looking for resolution of 50 mm required to identify mine like objects. This regards objects resting on the bottom or buried in sediments. Two types of side scan sonars can be considered for detection and identification of bottom objects. Due to size, weight and power restrictions, a short range, high frequency sonar capabilities were found to be suitable for the task. Recent advances in SAS technology offer new capabilities regarding Search rate and resolution, but introduces additional requirements to a platform.