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DVL-600K Phased

Doppler Velocity Log Phased


The DVL-600K-Phased is a compact, phased-array Doppler Velocity Log designed for precise underwater navigation and bottom tracking. With its lightweight design, low power consumption, and high-accuracy velocity measurement, it is ideal for integration into AUVs, ROVs, and USVs. Supporting multiple depth ratings (300 m / 3000 m / 6000 m), the DVL-600K-Phased provides reliable performance for both shallow-water and deep-sea missions.


DVL-600K-Phased

Key Features

  • High-accuracy bottom tracking: ±0.2% ±1 mm/s, resolution down to 0.05 mm/s.
  • Phased-array beam design: 4-beam system, 2.3° beam width, 30° nominal angle.
  • Compact and lightweight: Transducer <0.6 kg; processor module <0.9 kg.
  • Multiple depth ratings: Standard 300 m; optional 3000 m or 6000 m.
  • Low power consumption: ≤15 W average, ideal for battery-powered missions.
  • Easy integration: Standard RS-422 interface, PD6 ASCII data format, INS compatibility.
  • Reliable operation: Wide operating temperature range and customizable pressure resistance.

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Overview

System Composition

The DVL-600K-Phased Doppler Velocity Log consists of two main components: the phased array transducer and the electronic chassis.

  • Phased Array Transducer (waterproof): Responsible for receiving velocity-sensitive acoustic signals to achieve precise velocity measurements.
  • Electronic Chassis (non-waterproof): Handles signal preprocessing, acoustic signal analysis, velocity computation, and acoustic transmission.

In practice, the electronic chassis is typically installed in the dry compartment, while the transducer is mounted in the wet end, implementing a dry/wet separation design for easier system integration and maintenance.

Applications


  • Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
    Compact and large-diameter AUVs, providing precise bottom velocity and altitude measurements for navigation and path control.
  • Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
    Inspection-class ROVs, delivering accurate bottom tracking and altitude data in near-bottom or confined environments.
  • Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs)
    Surface platforms, offering reliable speed-over-ground and drift compensation when GPS is unavailable or degraded.

Specifications

Specification Parameter
Working Frequency600 kHz
Array TypePhased Array (4 beams)
Bottom Tracking Altitude1 m – 80 m
Bottom Tracking Velocity Range±7.5 m/s
Bottom Tracking Accuracy±0.2% ±1 mm/s
Bottom Tracking Resolution0.05 mm/s
Water Profiling Range2 m – 50 m
Water Profiling Velocity Range±7.5 m/s
Water Profiling Long-Term Accuracy±0.2% ±2 mm/s
Source Level (re 1 μPa)215 dB @ 1 m
Beam Width (1-Way)2.3°
Beam Angle (Nominal)30°
Maximum Operating Depth300 m (options: 3000 m, 6000 m)
Current Profiling Capability10 m fixed layer
Acoustic Array Pressure Resistance1 MPa (customizable per requirement)
Velocity Measurement ModesBottom Tracking / Auto Current Tracking (automatic switching)
Sound Speed CorrectionNot required
Operating Voltage18 – 36 VDC
Average Power Consumption≤ 15 W
Operating Temperature−5 °C to +45 °C
Storage Temperature−30 °C to +60 °C
Electronic Chassis Dimensions125 × 100 × 100 mm
Phased Array DimensionsΦ82.5 × 36 mm / Φ75 × 40 mm (excluding cable)
WeightPhased Array: <0.6 kg; Signal Processing Module: <0.9 kg
CommunicationsRS-422; Output Data Format: PD6 (ASCII); Frames Transmitted in Bottom Tracking Mode：:BI, :BD Frames Transmitted in Water Layer Tracking Mode：:WI, :WD

Principle of Phased-Array DVL

A Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) operates based on the Doppler effect, measuring the frequency shift of acoustic signals reflected from the seabed or water column. The phased-array DVL enhances this principle by using multiple precisely controlled beams to achieve higher accuracy and stability.

The phased array transducer emits acoustic signals at a fixed frequency toward the seabed. As the vehicle moves, the frequency of the returning echoes shifts according to its relative velocity. By analyzing these Doppler shifts across four beams, the system calculates three-dimensional velocity components and altitude above the seabed.

Compared to conventional single-beam designs, a phased-array DVL offers several advantages:

  • Improved accuracy and resolution through beamforming technology.
  • Compact structure with no moving parts, ideal for small AUVs, ROVs, and USVs.
  • Reliable bottom tracking in shallow or deep waters, with automatic switching to water column tracking when bottom lock is unavailable.
  • Seamless integration with INS systems for robust underwater navigation and dead-reckoning.

This makes phased-array Doppler Velocity Logs a critical navigation sensor for autonomous underwater vehicles, remotely operated vehicles, and uncrewed surface vessels, ensuring precise navigation in GPS-denied environments.