The Epibenthic Video Sledge „EMMA“is the last generation of Epibenthic Sledges based upon the design of Dr. Nils Brenke(Brenke 2005) and various improvements of this design (2012).

The construction of the Epibenthic-Video-Sledge is the latest improvement and an ideal tool for studies of sediment surface, marine geomorphology structures and patterns of benthic diversity.

The Sledge is constructed of stainless steel and divided in five sections: front section, centre section and rear section as well as two electronic carrier sections on each side. Offering various sections allows different configurations of equipment set-up and in case of damages the section concerned can be easily replaced.

The Epibenthic Sledge is equipped with two equal cone nets, both with a mesh size of 0,5 mm (material: Polyamide, PA). 2 net buckets are mounted in the rear section of the frame. To accommodate video cameras and lights two side sections (electronic carrier) can be mounted and equipped with electro- optical devices.

The components forming the underwater electro-optical system are most innovative with proven results in underwater applications. Full HD video recording and full HD still camera pictures will become standard in scientific campaigns.

Same is true for the intelligent energy management systems. It is a must to use latest Lithium technology providing increased / improved durability, thermal stability and charge and discharge currents with best safety and steady performances. The proposed lighting system is based upon dimmable, non flickering light with LED power and adjustable colour temperature. Clever interfaces and data logger are provided to control all cameras and sensors of the system. Depending on customer’s requirements various sensors from different manufacturer can be interfaced.

The sensor data such as C,T,D, current, pH, oxygen, etc. are logged in the unit whereas the cameras provide own storage capacity allowing an easy read-out of files via USB cable. For size comparison a dual leaser system is adapted to the video camera.