dotOcean GraviProbe 2.0

The GraviProbe is a free fall impact instrument and sediment profiler, analyzing the underwater sediment layers during intrusion. Under its own weight it accelerates and penetrates fluid and consolidated mud layers. The geotechnical and density conditions of the soil layers are determining the probe’s dynamical behavior. The data acquired from on-board accelerometers, inclinometers and pressure sensors is feeding a dynamical model which determines the geotechnical parameters of the intruded medium (depth, undrained shear strength and dynamic cone penetration resistance). As a result the GraviProbe is able to very accurately distinguish the depth of the fluid mud and consolidated mud layers, even in gassy environments. The high sensor data acquisition rates of up to 2kHz in combination with a low drag housing results in the highest quality profiles at drop rates over 7 m/s. Due to its light weight the probe can be operated manually from a small vessel, platform or quay and is limiting the operational costs. The GraviProbe Rheology provides tip resistance and shear strength. The GraviProbe Soil is similar to the GraviProbe Rheology but has a conus extension to penetrate hard an stiff sediment layers.