The National Intellectual Property Administration recently announced the winners of the 25th China Patent Award. The research team, led by Professor Li Ye from the Institute of Marine Robotics at the College of Shipbuilding Engineering, was honored for their invention of the "AUV-Mounted Multi-Beam Sonar Underwater Terrain Mapping Correction Method." This achievement marks the only award-winning project from Harbin Engineering University (HEU) in this year’s competition. Additionally, the patent earned the Gold Award at the 6th Patent Award of the Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering Industry.
The China Patent Award recognizes outstanding contributions to technological and design innovation, encourages the protection and application of intellectual property, and promotes high-quality economic development. This year, a total of 610 projects were honored with the prestigious award.
The underwater terrain mapping technology developed for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) using multi-beam bathymetric sonar offers a high-resolution method for deep-water nautical chart creation. With its vast potential in submarine oil and gas exploration, hydrological surveys, channel maintenance, and national defense, this technology has gained significant attention in recent years.
The AUV-mounted multi-beam sonar mapping correction method enhances the AUV’s ability to accurately map underwater terrain, particularly in deep-sea environments. By applying processes such as multi-beam point height prediction, inertial navigation system offset estimation, and mapping error correction, the method achieves precise and consistent underwater terrain mapping. Notably, this system operates independently of satellite or hydroacoustic array assistance, providing high-resolution and reliable maps. These maps are crucial for applications such as marine pipeline laying and submarine oil and gas development.
The China Patent Award, established 25 years ago, is the only government-sponsored award in China that specifically recognizes patented inventions and innovations. Jointly organized by the National Intellectual Property Administration of China and the World Intellectual Property Organization, it is widely recognized by the United Nations.
