FarSounder stands at the forefront of 3D forward-looking sonar (FLS) technology, providing essential underwater navigation solutions for unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).
Their cutting-edge sonar systems boast an exceptionally rapid update rate, delivering a complete 3D image with each ping. This FLS data is crucial for identifying hazards, obstacles, and shallow areas, significantly improving safety and navigation efficiency. Moreover, thes systems can be seamlessly integrated with a vessel’s navigation controller.
Explore our 3D forward-looking sonar solutions >
Innovative 3D Underwater Detection
FarSounder’s advanced sonar systems ensure reliable detection of underwater hazards, obstacles, and shallow regions, thereby enhancing navigation safety.
Utilizing unique phased array technology, Argos navigation sonar systems achieve an incredibly fast update rate, generating a complete 3D image with a single ping, thus eliminating delays.This rapid refresh rate ensures that results remain unaffected by multipath interference,vessel roll and pitch,surface effects,and other motions.
data can be visualized on an intuitive 3D display or overlaid on nautical charts, including S57/S63 and C-MAP Professional charts, providing a user-pleasant interface for piloting USVs through uncharted waters. The integrated Local History Mapping feature enables users to create a color-coded 3D map of the seafloor based on recent navigation. Additionally,all Argos systems allow for the configuration of automated visual and audible alerts.
For projects requiring bathymetric data for survey applications, the system’s data can be exported to QPS Qinsy survey software, facilitating the monitoring of bathymetry and hazards. Users can seamlessly incorporate bathymetric data collected via FarSounder’s forward-looking sonar into their operational workflows.
intuitive 3D Display
3D imaging ahead of a vessel at critical navigational ranges
Sonar Over Charts
clear visualization of FLS data over nautical charts
Fixed installation
Designed for fixed installation with no moving parts, suitable for various vessel types
fixed Update Rate
Phased array technology allows for the generation of a complete 3D image with a single ping
Our navigation sonar systems are designed for easy integration,making them suitable for both new constructions and retrofitting,applicable to vessels with or without bulbs.
3D Sonar Solutions
Argos 350 Forward Looking Sonar System
Navigation sonar for USVs
90° up to 350m range
The Argos 350 Forward Looking Sonar System is tailored for vessels measuring between 18 to over 40 meters (60 to 130+ feet). It can detect hazards and obstacles up to 350 meters ahead and operates effectively at speeds of up to 18 knots.
Conducting a straightforward survey
This system equips USV operators with real-time sonar data essential for navigating through reefs, shallow wrecks, icebergs, and other challenging marine environments. Beyond obstacle avoidance, the 3D sonar data is invaluable for various mapping and survey tasks.
the Argos 350 can be installed in two configurations to accommodate different USV, AUV, and unmanned vessel requirements—either through a straightforward fixed installation or a hoist installation within a 10-inch diameter sea chest.
For further details: Argos 350
argos 500 Forward Looking Sonar
Underwater sonar navigation system
120° up to 200m range
90° up to 500m range
The Argos 500 3D FLS offers dependable detection of shallow areas and underwater obstacles, extending up to 500 meters in front of the vessel. It operates effectively on vessels traveling at speeds of up to 20 knots.
This system is particularly suited for mid-sized USVs that demand high-precision collision avoidance and the capability to efficiently map shallow underwater environments.
Short Range Seafloor Bottom Contour
With a transducer that has no moving parts, the Argos 500 can be easily integrated into the hulls of both new and retrofitted vessels, and can also be incorporated into custom third-party hoists.
For more information: Argos 500 3D FLS
Argos 1000 Long-Range FLS
forward-facing sonar for USV navigation
120° up to 200m range
90° up to 500m range
60° up to 1000m range
The Argos 1000 is the most advanced Forward Looking Sonar system,offering reliable hazard detection and collision avoidance up to 1000 meters (0.5 nautical miles) ahead, with operational speeds reaching 25 knots.
This system is ideal for both existing and future large unmanned surface vessels (USVs), enabling these platforms to navigate challenging environments while significantly minimizing collision risks.
Shoreline detected at Long Range
The Argos 1000’s transducer,featuring no moving parts,allows for easy integration into various hull designs on both new and retrofitted vessels. It can also be customized for third-party hoists to meet specific user needs.
For additional details: Argos 1000 long-Range FLS
Product Comparison:
| Argos 350 | Argos 500 | Argos 1000 | |
| Ranges | 100, 200, 350 m | 100, 200, 500 m | 100, 200, 500, 1000 m |
| Field of View | 90° up to 350m | 120° up to 200m 90° up to 500m |
120° up to 200m 90° up to 500m 60° up to 1000m |
| Max Operational Speed | 18 knots | 20 knots | 25 knots |
| Maximum Depth Detection | 50 m (165 ft) | ||
| Power Requirements | 110/220 V 50/60 Hz @~80W |
110/220 V 50/60 Hz @~100W |
110/220 V 50/60 Hz @~120W |
| Angular Accuracy | ~1.6° | ||
| Roll/Pitch Stabilization | +/- 20° | ||
| Refresh Rate | ~3 Hz to ~1 Hz (depending on range) |
~3 Hz to ~0.75 Hz (depending on range) |
~3 Hz to ~0.5 Hz (depending on range) |
Watch an introduction to the Argos 3D Forward Looking Navigation Sonar Systems:
Explore the components of the system, their functionalities, and the key features of FarSounder’s SonaSoft™ processing software.
