Olex is a unique Norwegian-developed software system for surveying and navigation. When using WASSP and GPS, the Olex system gathers depth data, which is continuously processed and adapted to previous readings. The results are visualised on a screen as a realistic 3D image of the seabed.
A multibeam sonar is typically used to determine the depth of the water and, thus, the formation of the seabed. It works by emitting fan-shaped audio pulses, which are returned to the sonar when resistance is encountered. Olex processes these pulses and then forms a 3D image of the seabed using highly complicated algorithms. In order to create as accurate a picture as possible of the seabed it is necessary to integrate GPS1), MRU2) and CTD3) readings during the survey. A CTD supplies information on the water’s conductivity, temperature and pressure. This information determines how quickly the audio pulse penetrates the water. An MRU provides an impression of the vessel’s movements along the XYZ axis.
1)GPS: Global Positioning System, 2)MRU: Motion Reference Unit, 3)CTD: Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth
