would be cool if we could shrink a sonar into something the size of a wrist-watch and program these devices to send out signals in the water searching for large moving objects in the water (ie. mainly sharks) and emit an alarm when a shark comes within a programmed proximity. i'm aware sonar technology is usually quite large but maybe there is a simliar technology that can be used. i'm sure this device would be a hit, not just for surfers, but also for people just swimming at the beach. would eliminate that fear which is always sitting there in the subconscious.
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Sonar signals require sophisticated interpretation by a trained operator. An alarm by any moving body would not only probably be useless but also might generate unnecessary panic.
Australians have a lot of experience with sharks at beaches. Nets are the most reliable method.
Creating a false sense of security is not always such a good thing. A shark with "you is lunch" on his mind could easily outswim you by the time your sonar detected him.
For that matter, I read somewhere that more people die of bee stings than shark bites. Maybe it would be better to have a bee detector. . .
A minature sonar device might have many applications, but shark avoidance is redundant : Type Shark Shield into google.
I have full confidence in Shark Shield, and would be happy to let you test it by putting you in a tank with a 12 foot great white. If it doesn't work, just bring it back for a refund.
With the size you're thinking of, you probably won't have directional data available, which I consider more important than distance. Also, sharks are streamlined; humans aren't. You'd need some major noise reduction going on.
"Let me tell you what a shark attack is. A shark attack is when you're where you're supposed to be, and a shark shows up."