"Surveymarine" A High Speed Hydrographic Survey Platform
Abstract
Development of the HYDRA Survey System family of lightweight automated hydrographic data acquisition systems by the U. S. Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) has in turn generated a new requirement for an advanced family of survey platforms. To take full advantage of HYDRA's high density recording capabilities, an effective stable platform suitable for housing such equipment and operating at speeds in excess of 40 knots is essential. Those platforms showing the most promise are hydrofoils and sidewall hovercraft. NAVOCEANO has participated in several demonstrations of commercially available hovercraft and hydrofoils in addition to conducting a series of trials of its own. To date sidewall hovercraft have shown more potential as survey platforms owing to their greater range of efficient operating speeds. The intent of this report is to discuss the unique characteristics of a 51-foot sidewall hovercraft recently tested off the English Coast. This particular craft was completely fitted out with automated hydrographic data acquisition and survey control instrumentation. This report has been reviewed and is approved for release as an UNCLASSIFIED Informal Report.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- ADA460543
Entities
People
- Dan G. Dixon
- John N. Spinning
Organizations
- Naval Oceanographic Office