On this day in history,...

... in 1924, a significant advancement in oceanographic instrumentation was marked by the patent filing for what would become known as the Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP). This innovative device utilizes the Doppler effect to measure water current velocities across various depths, revolutionizing the study of aquatic environments.

The initial concept, referred to as the Acoustic Doppler Log, laid the groundwork for modern ADCPs. Despite its early inception, widespread adoption of ADCP technology did not occur until the late 1970s, coinciding with the availability of commercial models. These devices have since become indispensable in oceanography, providing precise measurements of current profiles essential for understanding ocean dynamics, sediment transport, and ecological habitats.

The evolution of ADCPs has been documented extensively, highlighting their transition from conceptual designs to vital tools in marine research. For a comprehensive understanding of their development and application, refer to the detailed study available at https://escholarship.org/uc/item/8072w8nr.

Sources

• Kosro, M. (1985). Shipboard Acoustic Current Profiling During the Coastal Ocean Dynamics Experiment, https://escholarship.org/uc/item/8072w8nr
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acoustic_Doppler_current_profiler