The shot-sensor method of measuring currents in shallow estuarine waters

A current measuring device, the Shot-Sensor, was developed as a low cost alternative to measuring water flow speeds and directions using conventional, more expensive instrumentation. The device releases stainless steel shot of known size and settling speed into a flowing water mass. As the shot settles, it is dispersed by currents and ends up in settling traps. Mean current speed and direction can be calculated from the patterns of dispersal and the percentages of shot of various sizes in the traps. Determination of precision and accuracy indicate that the Shot-Sensor can measure within a few cm s^?1 of more expensive meters and may be suitable for some shallow-water applications. Speed range of the Shot-Sensor is presently limited between 3 and 40 cm s^?1, but further development could allow this range to be extended.