Challenges, limitations, and measurement strategies to ensure data quality in deep-sea sensors

Abstract

In this paper we give an overview of factors and limitations impairing deep-sea sensor data, and we show how automatic tests can give sensors self-validation and self-diagnostic capabilities. This work is intended to lay a basis for sophisticated use of smart sensors in long-term autonomous operation in remote deep-sea locations. Deep-sea observation relies on data from sensors operating in remote, harsh environments which may affect sensor output if uncorrected. In addition to the environmental impact, sensors are subject to limitations regarding power, communication, and limitations on recalibration. To obtain long-term measurements of larger deep-sea areas, fixed platform sensors on the ocean floor may be deployed for several years. As for any observation systems, data collected by deep-sea observation equipment are of limited use if the quality or accuracy (closeness of agreement between the measurement and the true value) is not known. If data from a faulty sensor are used directly, this may result in an erroneous understanding of deep water conditions, or important changes or conditions may not be detected. Faulty sensor data may significantly weaken the overall quality of the combined data from several sensors or any derived model. This is particularly an issue for wireless sensor networks covering large areas, where the overall measurement performance of the network is highly dependent on the data quality from individual sensors. Existing quality control manuals and initiatives for best practice typically recommend a selection of (near) real-time automated checks. These are mostly limited to basic and straight forward verification of metadata and data format, and data value or transition checks against pre-defined thresholds. Delayed-mode inspection is often recommended before a final data quality stamp is assigned.

A Highly Sensitive Deep-Sea Hydrodynamic Pressure Sensor Inspired by Fish Lateral Line

“…Despite the vast abundance of resources in the ocean, our understanding of it, particularly the deep sea, remains limited. Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) have emerged as crucial tools in the field of ocean exploration [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. These vehicles have proven instrumental in various activities such as resource discovery, environmental monitoring, rescue operations, and archaeological research [ 4 , 5 , 6 ].…”

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non-intrusive wave measurement device for accurate analysis and real-time data

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Numerical models reveal the suitable habitat area for the stock enhancement and release of marine organism larvae in Liaodong Bay

“…In the turn of the century, the fishing industry and researchers made easier to identify environmental characteristics of fish culture and release areas by using remote monitoring systems with integrated temperature and salinity sensors (Laroche et al, 2016;Lee et al, 2022;Skålvik et al, 2023). However, when faced with the need to understand the environmental features of larger oceanic areas, this technology becomes increasingly difficult to implement, as larger areas require more equipment and personnel investment, leading to a significant growing in production costs.…”