KONSEP SBES
SBES was first developed in the early 20th century as a replacement for lead lines (pendulum ropes) used to measure ocean depth. With advances in electronics and computer technology, SBES can now produce more precise data, integrate with satellite navigation systems (GNSS/RTK), and can be directly processed into waterbed profiles.
As it develops, SBES remains widely used due to its lower cost compared to Multibeam Echo Sounders (MBES). This makes SBES ideal for projects that do not require full data coverage, such as surveys of canals, rivers, or relatively small shallow waters.
Main Components of SBES
1. Transducer
- Functions as a transmitter and receiver of sound signals.
- Mounted under the boat/USV for direct contact with the water column.
2. Transceiver/Processor Unit
- Converts electrical signals into sound waves when transmitting, and vice versa when receiving echoes.
- Calculates signal travel time to generate depth values.
3. GPS/RTK Receiver
- Provides horizontal position coordinates to integrate depth data with location.
4. Display & Recording Unit
- Displays depth readings in real time.
- Stores data for further analysis.
SBES Usage Methods
Survey Path Planning
The vessel’s path must be designed parallel to the entire survey area so that depth data represents the entire survey area.
Sound Speed Correction
Performed using a bar check or CTD (Conductivity, Temperature, Depth) sensor to account for variations in sound speed in water.
Data Collection
The boat/USV moves along the survey track, while the SBES records the depth every second.
Data Processing
The data is then processed into a cross-section profile or simple bathymetric map.
SBES Advantages
- Efficient and Economical, Low operational costs, suitable for small to medium-scale surveys.
- Easy to Use, Simple installation on a boat or USV.
- Suitable for Shallow Waters, Works well in rivers, canals, reservoirs, and swamps with depths of 1–50 m.
- Integration with GIS, Depth data can be easily combined with land topographic data for integrated analysis.
SBES Limitations
- Limited coverage: only produces depth data directly below the ship’s track.
- Less suitable for large areas: requires dense survey lines to approximate a 3D representation of the waterbed.
- Depends on water conditions: waves, turbidity, or air bubbles can affect accuracy
SBES Applications
- Canal & Irrigation Surveys – monitoring sedimentation and depth for water operations.
- Swamp & Pond Management – assisting with waterway planning and fish farming.
- River Surveys – determining riverbed profiles for bridge or embankment planning.
- Energy & Infrastructure Support – preliminary studies for dams, ports, or reclamation.
- Environmental Monitoring – monitoring changes in water morphology due to erosion or sedimentation.
SBES is a practical solution for bathymetric surveys that require speed, efficiency, and accuracy in shallow waters. Although limited to linear coverage, the resulting data remains highly valuable as a basis for technical planning, environmental monitoring, and water resource management. The integration of SBES with GNSS RTK and GIS tools makes it a highly useful instrument in the modern surveying world.
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