The VS-AAI (Vector Sensor – Accelerometer Acoustic Integration) system is a newly developed underwater sensing platform designed to capture a wide range of underwater acoustic and vibrational signals. It combines hydrophones and a high-sensitivity accelerometer within a single system, enabling signal detection over an exceptionally broad frequency spectrum—from 0.001 Hz to 2 kHz. The accelerometer measures low-frequency vibrations (below 10 Hz), while the hydrophones capture higher-frequency acoustic signals. This dual approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of underwater dynamics.

This image conceptually shows the signal sources in submarine environment

By applying machine learning algorithms to the collected data, VS-AAI aims at identifying and interpreting various underwater phenomena, including anthropic activities such as ship passages, natural events like internal sea waves, and biological sounds such as marine mammal vocalizations. This system thus represents a powerful tool for environmental monitoring, marine research, and ecosystem protection.

Further details about the design and construction of the underwater housing—featuring both sensors—are available through the [link provided], where images and diagrams illustrate the system’s innovative architecture.

Photos of the hydrophone (left-side) and accelerometer (right-side)