Miros RangeFinder

Description

The Miros RangeFinder is the ultimate stand-alone sensor for airgap, tide, water level, draught and wave measurements. Rangefinder is a dry, radar-based sensor, measuring with millimetre accuracy (+/- 1mm) in all weather conditions. With motion compensation (called WaveFinder), it is the only system in the world for providing wave parameter data with sufficient accuracy to meet DNV’s Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H101, Marine Operations, General. The RangeFinder is available as an IoT-based sensor meaning that it is truly plug-and-play, only needing power and an internet connection to give secure access to immediate, real-time data about the ocean state. Now also available with Atex IECEx certification.

The RangeFinder emits a microwave frequency modulated (FM) chirp signal and receives the echo from the water surface. The signal propagation delay given by the distance from the antenna to the water surface causes a beat signal in the receiver. By means of advanced signal processing, the beat frequency is converted to an accurate distance. The FM chirp is generated by a digitally synthesised frequency sweep oscillator with absolute frequency linearity and high stability. The sensor, therefore, provides accurate range measurements and high long-term stability. Up to 50 measurements per second are averaged over a user-selectable averaging time and the distance to the surface can range from 1 to 100 meters which is superior to what any competing product can offer.

NOAA’s Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services (CO-OPS) conducted a 3-month field study comparing radar-based water level sensors. They found that the Miros RangeFinder is the optimal choice for wave measurements.