D-2, Inc. has evaluated the performance of its Hybrid CTD Sensor through laboratory calibration and ocean-based observations. These assessments were conducted using a custom-built self-contained system that integrates a controller, data logger, and battery pack specifically designed for this project.
CTD (conductivity, temperature, and depth) sensors are key tools in oceanographic research, widely deployed from research vessels and integrated into autonomous platforms such as moorings, profiling floats, gliders, and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).
CTD sensors play a crucial role in measuring seawater salinity and supporting physical oceanography studies, providing essential data for understanding ocean dynamics and environmental changes.
D-2’s Hybrid CTD sensor introduces an innovative approach to conductivity measurement, combining the strengths of both electrode-based and inductive sensing technologies. This hybrid methodology delivers exceptional accuracy and precision, even at extreme depths of up to 11,000 meters.
Additionally, the sensor features a high-resolution strain-gauge pressure sensor, state-of-the-art solid-state electronics, advanced signal processing, and a choice between industry-standard or high-performance temperature sensors.
The sensor’s proprietary technology results in a compact, lightweight design, making it particularly well-suited for deployment on AUVs and other robotic underwater platforms. Moreover, its design allows for free-flushing operation in most applications, eliminating the need for an external pump.
