An Acoustic Sensor System to Measure Aeolian Ripple Morphology and Migration Rates

Acoustic distance sensors have a long history of use to detect subaqueous bedforms. There have been few comparable applications for aeolian bedforms such as ripples. To address this, we developed a simple and reliable apparatus comprising a pair of distance sensors, a bracket upon which they are mounted, and a base upon which the bracket can slide. Our system relies on two Senix Corporation (Hinesburg, VT, USA), ToughSonic^® model 14-TSPC-30S1-232 acoustic distance sensors: one to measure surface elevation changes (in this case, ripple morphology) and a second to measure horizontal location. The ToughSonic^® vertical resolution was 0.22 mm and the horizontal scan distance was about 0.60 m with a locational accuracy of 0.22 mm. The measurement rate was 20 Hz, but we over-sampled at 1 KHz. Signal processing involves converting volts to meters, detrending the data, and removing noise. Analysis produces ripple morphologies and migration rates that conform with independent measurements. The advantages of this system relative to terrestrial laser scanning or structure from motion are described.