Tow Body Metal Detector

Reference#: P02330

Detection of underwater metal objects is used in a wide variety of areas: commercial salvage operations, treasure hunting, law enforcement, minesweeping and underwater-unexploded ordnance (UXO) remediation. The Tow Body Metal Detector (TMBD) is connected to a tow vessel via a cable and tow point. The tow vessel pulls the TMBD through the water and a winch deploys a cable that allows the tow body to descend into the water. A metal detector (MD) antenna is used for underwater metal detection. Typically a pulse inductive metal detector (PIMD) is used for underwater applications. MD antennas transmit magnetic fields that interact with submerged metal objects. Metal objects then re-radiate a magnetic field that is detected by a MD antenna.

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL) researchers have developed and are in the process of patenting an improved underwater TBMD that is towed by a vessel. This version has a large folding MD antenna relative to the size of the body. The TBMD is deployed and recovered with the antenna folded into the body. Once in position underwater, the antenna wings are spread out thereby allowing for greater sensitivity and a larger field of measurement. JHU/APL is seeking development partners and licensees U.S. Patent Pending

Patent Status: U.S. patents pending.