Hydrofoil and Nautical Applications | Senix Ultrasonic Level Sensors

Senix ToughSonic® ultrasonic sensors measure distances to target objects or materials using “non-contact” technology that does not physically touch the target. They’re reliable, user-friendly, and used in many industries throughout the world.

Ultrasonic sensors' real-time, non-contact distance measurements are crucial for maintaining optimal ride height and stability in hydrofoils. ToughSonics are also used for water depth sensing and detecting corrosion during ship maintenance.

Both the Oracle-BMW boat and Emirates New Zealand boats used ToughSonic ultrasonic sensors during their winning sails in America's Cup Racing

ToughSonic®: The Star of America's Cup

Senix sensors have shown their mettle in the tumultuous nautical environment of America’s Cup Racing.

ToughSonic ultrasonics were first used by the Oracle-BMW in 2013—the same year they took gold.

They were also later adopted for use by Emirates New Zealand, the 2017 Bermuda winner.

"We drive the boat based on sensor data," said Jose Luis Vela, Team USA Data Analyst and Instrumentation Engineer.

"Foiling requires real-time information that needs to be fast and completely accurate. We selected Senix ultrasonic sensors after extensive testing in a variety of high-speed marine conditions."

Senix is a proud member and sponsor of the International Hydrofoil Society (IHS).

Read About ToughSonics' Role

Senix's TS-100 general-purpose and TS-200 chemical-resistant ultrasonic sensor series deliver proven performance in harsh, salty seawater applications.

Hull-to-Water Distance

Determine vertical distance between the boat and water surface to ensure safe water depth and vessel stability.

Ballast Tank Measurement

Measure ballast tanks within bulk carriers and cargo ships; automate pumps to take in or release water.

Fast-Paced Hydrofoiling

Accurate measurements control the lift and height of hydrofoil boats for energy-efficient boating.

Liquid Cargo Inventory

Measure and monitor levels of crude oil, refined fuels, and industrial chemicals during transport.

Water Level Monitoring

Detect water levels in the bilge of vessels; set critical high levels in SensorView™ to trigger pumps.

ToughSonics being used during the development of TU Delft's flying hydrogen hydrofoiling boat—the first of its kind

Marine Performance & Control

Precise Measurements from Compact Sensors

Senix ToughSonic® ultrasonic sensors deliver real-time distance measurement for hydrofoil boats, marine vessels, barges, and nautical systems.

Built to withstand harsh saltwater environments, they provide the fast, accurate data needed to optimize performance, stability, and safety on the water.

Maintain optimal ride height in hydrofoils with precise distance measurement from hull to water surface
Improve vessel performance and stability using real-time sensor feedback for automated control systems
Measure water depth and surface distance for navigation, safety, and system monitoring
Support marine durability and reliability in harsh saltwater and high-speed conditions

Shop Ultrasonic Sensors

A combination of precise measurements, ruggedized engineering, and seamless integration with control systems make Senix ultrasonics well-suited for marine vessels.

Reinforced sensor housings icon: ToughSonic sensors are highly rated for protection against water ingress

Heavy-duty electronics are epoxy-potted into type 316 stainless-steel (TS-100 series) or PVDF plastic (TS-200 series) housings.

ToughSonics' durable design also includes permanently attached cables and ruggedized piezoelectric transducers.

Senix ultrasonic sensors are rated IP68, NEMA-4X, and NEMA-6P for resistance against water ingress. TS-200 sensors offer added protection from corrosive saltwater.

They are unaffected by optical factors, such as lighting or color of the measured material/target. Sensors can even be submerged without interruption in performance.

Fast, real-time adjustment of Senix ultrasonics is possible with SensorView™ configuration software

ToughSonic sensors measure level and distance continuously, or at user-configured intervals.

Real-time measurements enable simultaneous control, allowing operators aboard the vessel to manage takeoff, cruise, and landing. Sensors can be adjusted anytime using SensorView™ configuration software on a PC.