Teledyne Marine expands with acquisition of Valeport
Teledyne Marine has agreed to acquire Valeport a market leader in the design and manufacture of underwater sensors and profilers.
The acquisition expands the products and solutions offered by Teledyne Marine, a leading-edge subsea technology company. It sees Teledyne provide customers with a wider range of underwater solutions.
Valeport is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of oceanographic and hydrographic instrumentation. The independent family-owned business, which was established in 1969, designs and manufactures instrumentation for the oceanographic and hydrographic communities with a worldwide customer base that includes: subsea, hydrographic, metrological and positioning, oceanographic, ports, harbours, dredging, energy and scientific research sectors.
Ole Søe-Pedersen, VP & GM Teledyne Marine Europe said: “We are delighted that Valeport will join Teledyne Marine and expand our technology offerings.
“Valeport is a respected and recognized brand of underwater sensors and profilers and will complement the Teledyne Marine portfolio of technologies and solutions.”
After 18 years at the helm, Matt Quartley and his leadership team will work with Teledyne Marine over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition for staff and customers alike.
Matt Quartley, Managing Director of Valeport said: “Our family is very proud of where we have brought Valeport so far, but the time is right for the next phase of its journey, and I am so pleased that this will be as a part of Teledyne Marine. The prospect of working with the rest of the Teledyne group to bring our customers an even greater range of superb, high-quality products is something that we are incredibly excited about, and will undoubtedly be to the benefit of Valeport, Teledyne, and most importantly, all of our customers.”
EvoLogics presents the next-generation Quadroin AUV
EvoLogics, a Berlin-based provider of high-tech underwater robotics, data networks, positioning, and sensor technologies, proudly announces the launch of the next iteration of the Quadroin AUV.
Originally introduced in May 2021, the Quadroin vehicle garnered attention for its distinctive, penguin-like design. Engineered for monitoring and surveying, the fast and maneuverable Quadroin leverages EvoLogics' expertise in low-drag bionic design. Dr. Rudolf Bannasch, EvoLogics founder, delved into years of research on penguin locomotion, resulting in the AUV's remarkable hydrodynamic properties. With its low-drag shape, the Quadroin achieves speeds of up to 10 knots, minimising energy consumption and enabling versatile deployments.
The initial series of Quadroin prototypes, developed in collaboration with Hereon for the Helmholtz Association's MOSES initiative, focuses on monitoring ocean eddies. These vehicles are equipped with sensors for collecting geo-referenced data on various physical water parameters, including temperature, pressure, oxygen, conductivity, and fluorescence, at different depth levels.
Building upon this foundation, EvoLogics has undertaken significant enhancements to the Quadroin platform, with a primary focus on expanding its instrument payload capacity and underwater A.I. computations. This evolution led to a comprehensive redesign of the vehicle's internal layout, integration of updated components, and optimisation of sensor systems to accommodate a broader range of instruments while maintaining operational efficiency.
The new generation Quadroin now carries an expanded instrument payload. The side-scan sonar enables acoustic seafloor imaging. Additionally, two full-HD underwater cameras—one forward-facing at a 45-degree angle and one downward-facing—equipped with dimmable LED lights, provide a visual identification of the vehicle’s surroundings.
The newly integrated EvoLogics AI-powered object recognition module allows detecting objects in the side-scan sonar and video feeds live during the mission with processing carried out onboard the vehicle. It is also to enable automatic collision avoidance through a front-looking sonar system.
The hardware and propulsion systems were redesigned with next-generation components for optimal performance. The Quadroin now features a Nortek Nucleus1000 integrated subsea navigation package that couples Nortek’s DVL technology with additional position-aiding sensors for reliable vehicle control.
Today, team EvoLogics is happy to reveal a new video of the Quadroin vehicles in action, shot in late 2023 at the Kreidesee Lake in Hemmoor, DE.
EvoLogics will be presenting the upgraded Quadroin at Oceanology International 2024 through live on-site demonstrations.
Click here to watch Quadroin in action.
Kraken Robotics minehunting systems operational with the Royal Danish Navy
Kraken Robotics is pleased to announce the completion of all deliveries and the successful sea acceptance of all systems for its mine-hunting sonar equipment under the Royal Danish Navy Minehunting sonar upgrade program. This contract was signed in September 2020, following a competitive bidding process. Under the contract with the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO), Kraken has delivered four complete turnkey mine-hunting systems, with each system consisting of a KATFISH™ towed Synthetic Aperture Sonar, Tentacle® Winch and Autonomous Launch and Recovery System (ALARS), topside command and control equipment, and remote operation and monitoring capability for standoff mine-hunting operations.
Starting in 2022, the KATFISH mine-hunting systems were integrated onboard the Royal Danish Navy’s optionally uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), the MSF-class. Kraken worked closely with MCM Denmark operators and workshop technicians as well as skilled local Danish shipyard, JOBI, to install Kraken’s DNV design approved Autonomous Launch and Recovery System (ALARS) onto the MSF-class in parallel with the MSF-class planned mid-life refit. Kraken also integrated the KATFISH system with Saab’s Command and Control (C2) software, providing operators with a seamless experience for mission planning and mission monitoring. The inclusion of Kongsberg’s Maritime Broadband Radio (MBR) enables the complete system to operate remotely, streaming full resolution sonar imagery in real-time at ranges exceeding line of sight.
In 2023, Kraken also entered in a 7-year sustainment contract with DALO, with options for two further 7-year extensions, for a total possible 21 years of sustainment. The sustainment program includes regularly scheduled maintenance, repair, and overhaul as well as provision of training and spare parts, and the delivery of regular capability enhancements through software updates. Throughout 2024, Kraken will also be delivering additional spares, including spare towcables and two spare KATFISH towbodies.
Kraken has developed and delivered extensive training programs with the MCM Denmark team, including Onboard Operator, Onboard Maintainer, and Depot Maintainer training certification programs. As of 2024, the Royal Danish Navy will have completed their first full year of KATFISH operations, with an undisclosed large number of operational hours. Commander (Navy) K.P. Hansen, Commanding Officer of MCM Denmark said: “Our operators have been extremely pleased with the performance of the KATFISH system, including the ability for safe automated remote launch and recovery. The addition of this valuable high-resolution, high-speed seabed survey tool to our MCM toolbox has provided our operators with an invaluable capability in seabed warfare. Our mission to provide safety and security in Danish waters has been bolstered by this capability, and we look forward to many years of successful operations with the Kraken systems.”
The Head of the Maritime Division within DALO, Captain (RDN) Jakob Damgaard Rousøe noted in February 2024: “The proces of integrating the Kraken KATFISH sonar into the Danish MCM forces is coming to an end and it is anticipated that the MCM capacity will reach Full Operational Capability (FOC) within the first half of 2024. An extremely extensive and close coordinated work has been put into the system integration from all stakeholders. This have resulted in many days and hours onboard the small MCM drones at the Naval base in Frederikshavn. I have followed the work closely and I am very pleased with the overall result. A very impressive sensor providing very detailed images that will increase the detection and classification probability of mine like echoes significantly. Well done to all”
Ashtead Technology expands rental fleet portfolio with acquisition of Exail’s Rovins 9-DVL
Exail, a leading provider of cutting-edge navigation technology, has secured a major contract with Ashtead Technology for the initial sale of six units of its brand-new all-in-one INS/DVL system, the Rovins 9-DVL. With this new acquisition, Ashtead Technology becomes the first rental company in the market to adopt Exail’s new INS/DVL technology.
Exail’s Rovins 9-DVL is a high-performance navigation system that seamlessly integrates INS (Inertial Navigation System) and DVL (Doppler Velocity Log) functionalities, delivering highly accurate and reliable subsea positioning and velocity measurements. By incorporating this innovative technology into its rental fleet, Ashtead Technology solidifies its position as a frontrunner in the industry.
“Ashtead Technology remains committed to delivering unparalleled service and industry-leading technology to its customers worldwide,” stated Phil Middleton, Head of Survey and Robotics at Ashtead Technology. “The Rovins 9-DVL, with its advanced capabilities as an integrated INS/DVL system, along with its compact horizontal design and plug-and-play feature, will facilitate effortless integration into various subsea vehicles, streamlining operations for subsea operators in the field.”
"We extend our deepest gratitude to Ashtead Technology for their confidence in our technology and are immensely proud to have them as a trusted partner," expressed Maverick Piccininni, Regional Sales Manager at Exail. "The success of our collaboration in 2023 has been outstanding, and we eagerly anticipate further growth and innovation in partnership with Ashtead Technology throughout 2024."
The acquisition of the Rovins 9-DVL marks the latest addition to a series of strategic moves undertaken by Ashtead Technology over the past year, further enhancing its underwater technology portfolio through partnering with Exail.
Expanded vision: Introducing Voyis' discovery stereo camera for shallow depths
Last year, Voyis revolutionised underwater operations with the launch of the Discovery Stereo camera, boasting an impressive 4000-meter depth rating with high accuracy dome viewports. This innovative product delivered true depth perception and real-time 3D modeling to ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) platforms across the ocean sector. Taking an innovative approach, the Discovery is a more than a stereo camera, it is a Vision System that simultaneously records low-latency piloting video, high-resolution stills images, and 3D models. With a wide 75°x75° field of view and onboard edge computing, the system instantaneously delivers 3D depth maps to enable true autonomy, from fine manipulator automation, accurate vehicle docking and visual tracking, or station keeping without seabed bottom-lock.
Today, Voyis releases a 300-meter depth rated version of the Discovery Stereo, delivering the same performance and accuracy but in a package that is lower cost and neutrally buoyant.
Key Benefits of the Discovery Stereo 300m Rated
A remarkable feature of the 300m rated Discovery Stereo camera is its neutrally buoyant design that is achieved without compromising on the proven system accuracy. This advancement drastically simplifies integration into small ROVs for shallow water applications, ensuring ROV piloting dynamics are not affected.
The most intricate details of the underwater world can now be captured on smaller platforms that are both lower cost and easier to deploy. With the neutrally buoyant Discovery Stereo camera, you will experience enhanced stability and ease, allowing you to capture stunning images, video, and 3D data with simple integration.
The paired Nova Mini lights are smaller and employ corrected optics that expand the illumination coverage. This ensures the entire camera’s field of view is perfectly illuminated, maximising target coverage rates, and improving the robustness of tracking algorithms.
In addition to that, the 300-meter rated Discovery Stereo camera generates the highest quality datasets in this depth class. With other shallow rated stereo products compromising on performance to achieve their reduced cost and weight requirements, 300m Discovery maintains all product functionality and accuracy, simply in an optimised form factor. This new product version was created to assist operations in shallower water, without compromising data quality and precision.
By prioritising both performance and adaptability, the Discovery Stereo camera empowers users to navigate shallower waters without compromising on the unparalleled quality of the collected data. Its advanced features not only elevate the standards for underwater inspections but also make it an indispensable tool for various ocean sciences and civil infrastructure applications where precision and data integrity are paramount.
Job Advert: Operations & Engagement Manager for The Hydrographic Society
Remuneration: Salary from £40k (offer increasing dependant on relevant experience), plus 28 days holiday plus pension.
Job status: Permanent full-time based upon a 37.5 hour working week. Flexible hours and working supported. Reports to: THS:UKI Chief Executive
Job location: This is a flexible home-based role with occasional travel for meetings and events.
Purpose: This key and exciting role makes the post-holder a focal point of the Hydrographic sector, with responsibility for the day-to-day management of THS:UKI and its finances in line with the objectives of the organisation to maintain and support the membership body. You will support the promotion of the society and Hydrographic profession through delivery of THS:UKI events, publications, media platforms and supporting the Chief Executive Officer with the implementation of the Strategic Plan.
Core Aims: Ensuring the society operates effectively and meets its obligations through the administration of financial accounts and compliance reporting, encouraging internal and external engagement and supporting senior management with the implementation of strategies which develop the relevance of THS:UKI. The post holder will have policy, process and expenditure related decision-making authority relevant to the position, to support the delivery of the publication and events programme. This includes deployment of resourcing within delegated limits, or if beyond that to make recommendations to senior management with regards to expenditure.
THS:UKI
The Hydrographic Society UK, operating as The Hydrographic Society UK & Ireland, is an independent, non-profit making, non-governmental, learned professional society. It provides a forum for all those involved in activities related to hydrography and associated disciplines, both in the UK and overseas. THS:UKI encompasses a wide range of specialisms and activities. Our Individual and Corporate Members operate in many sectors including surveying for nautical charting, offshore resources, construction, engineering, renewable energy, environmental monitoring, oceanography, geology and the manufacture and supply of related products.
To apply – email CV to: [email protected]
Closing Date: 1 Mar 24
Responsibilities & Duties - Operational
Management of THS:UKI’s operations and obligations.
Under direction from senior management, organisation and management of the delivery of conferences and events programme.
Under the guidance of the Chief Executive Officer, delivery of the correct administration of THS:UKI as a company and charity.
Timely production and delivery of corporate and compliance reporting.
Liaison with and support of THS:UKI Regions and IFHS as required.
Supporting senior management with implementation of strategies which develop the relevance of THS:UKI.
Responsibility for ensuring compliance with rules and regulations governing the Health and Safety of Staff.
Responsibilities & Duties - Membership
Supervision of the administration of all memberships, accreditations, and associated payments
Maintenance and growth of membership levels, hence growing the financial value of individual and corporate memberships to the organisation.
Responsibilities & Duties - Media & Publications
Editor for THS:UKI media and publications, ensuring that they are produced and delivered on time. These include but are not limited to: –
– soundings magazine;
– E-bulletin
– THS:UKI website
– Social media (currently LinkedIn and Twitter)
Contribute to the growth of contributing authors and advertisers.
Develop and maintain regular engaging social posts.
Produce marketing material to promote THS:UKI.
Promote awareness of hydrography and the hydrographic profession.
Responsibilities & Duties - Personnel
Management of one direct report (IFHS Accreditation and Operations Coordinator) and sub-contracted personnel where appropriate.
Providing leadership, motivation, and training of staff, encouraging employee engagement and development.
Responsibilities & Duties - Communications & Working Relationships
Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Internal –The Board, The THS:UKI Regional Committees, Staff.
External – IFHS, The Corporate and Individual membership as well as key stakeholders. including the IHO, IMO and National and International Hydrographic and Marine Science community, Sub-contractors and Suppliers.
Responsibilities & Duties - Decision Making Authority
The post holder will have policy, process and expenditure related decision-making authority relevant to the position to support the delivery of the publication and events programme including deployment of resourcing within delegated limits, or if beyond that to make recommendations to senior management with regards to expenditure.
Responsibilities & Duties - Financial
Administration and compliance of financial accounts under the guidance of the Finance Director.
Delegated Authority for operational expenditure of £2.5K.
Responsibilities & Duties - Report Preparation
Preparation of regular operational, financial, and corporate and compliance reporting.
Responsibility for official output including all products and written reports including quality control, proofing, and approval.
Preparation of monthly management report with focus on agreed KPI ‘s which reflect organisational and individual performance and objectives.
Responsibilities & Duties - Diversity, Inclusivity & Ethics
Ensuring that the organisation is compliant with legal and business ethics.
Ensuring that the organisation is abreast of and compliant with its legal and moral obligations with regards to inclusivity and diversity and that the organisation does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, religion, gender identity, disability or sexual orientation.
Candidate Specification - Essential
Proven experience in delivering business objectives.
Strong writing and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in an accessible style.
Familiarity with editing a website, journal, or newsletters.
Capability in events management, preferably catering to national and international audiences.
Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple objectives simultaneously.
Good negotiation and influencing skills.
Confidence when engaging with senior stakeholders.
Comfortable engaging with all sectors of the Hydrographic and associated industries including managing relationships with a broad range of stakeholders.
Able to work independently and to prioritise work set by senior management.
Adapts well to changing situations and priorities. Expected to be flexible in their duties and carry out any other duties commensurate with the role which fall within the general scope of the job, as requested by the Chief Executive Officer or senior management.
Candidate Specification - Desirable
Experience of working within the Charity or not-for-profit sector is desirable.
Educated to degree level or equivalent professional qualification.
Experience in a scientific related discipline, preferably in the hydrographic / marine / other relevant sector.
To apply – email CV to: [email protected]
Ocean Business earns title as one of the ‘World's Leading Trade Shows’ with exceptional exhibitor and visitor NPS Scores
Leading Event Industry Benchmark Research Company Explori confirms that Ocean Business has one of the highest Exhibitor and Visitor Net Promoter Score results of all trade shows held across the world.
With an Exhibitor NPS of +61, Ocean Business belongs to a select club of international trade shows who are in the top one percent of all trade shows internationally.
Explori's benchmarks contain data from over 8,000 events held across all sectors on all continents and is considered the go-to benchmark for organisers and marketeers, to measure the customer experience at trade events all over the world.
Visitor satisfaction is not far behind, with an NPS score of +50, which is considered ‘exceptional’, and in the top 10% internationally, according to Explori.
Portfolio Director Cheri Arvonio says: “Since it’s launch in 2007, Ocean Business has revolutionised the format of exhibitions in the ocean science and technology sector. Blending a traditional trade show with a conference, on-water demonstrations, and a huge social programme, it creates a truly unique experience for both exhibitors and visitors alike.
We have worked incredibly hard to ensure our events serve our communities to the highest standard, and we’re thrilled to be recognised in the top 1% of all trade shows across the world.”
The next edition of Ocean Business takes place on 8-10 April 2025 at the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton UK. For more information, please visit www.oceanbusiness.com.
NOTES: NPS stands for Net Promoter Score, a metric used in customer experience programmes. NPS measures the loyalty of customers to a company. NPS scores are measured with a single question survey and reported with a number from -100 to +100. A higher score is desirable.
Voyis empowers Memorial University's Galápagos Coral Expedition
Voyis, a pioneer in cutting-edge technology solutions, is proud to announce its work with Memorial University of Newfoundland on an extraordinary scientific expedition to the Galápagos Islands funded by Schmidt Ocean Institute, and with the participation of the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Galápagos National Park. This initiative, led by Chief Scientist Katleen Robert, represents a groundbreaking effort to explore and document the enigmatic world of cold-water coral ecosystems thriving on the cliffs of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Galápagos Islands, renowned for their unique biodiversity, are home to a multitude of cold-water corals, including those residing in vertical habitats. These deep-dwelling corals, shrouded in mystery due to their inaccessibility, hold vital ecological significance. The expedition, taking place from September 18 to October 19, 2023, is equipped with advanced technology, including Voyis' Insight Micro laser scanner, to unlock the secrets of these vertical coral reefs.
Cold-water corals on cliffs have long presented challenges to researchers due to their depth and inaccessibility to ship-based sensors. The Insight Micro laser scanner, known for its capability to capture high-resolution 3D data and crisp still images with low power consumption, is poised to play a pivotal role in overcoming these obstacles.
The Galápagos Marine Reserve, one of the world's largest marine protected areas, ensures that these coral ecosystems have remained untouched by destructive human activities. This pristine environment provides an unprecedented opportunity for Chief Scientist Katleen Robert and her team to study undisturbed ecosystems. The resulting baseline data will be shared with local colleagues and used in regional conservation efforts.
While tropical and shallow-water corals are well-documented, cold-water corals constitute approximately half of the global coral population. Yet, the vertical environments where many thrive remain largely unexplored. This knowledge gap, especially in the southern hemisphere, underscores the significance of this expedition in contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of global coral ecosystems.
Cold-water corals, which lack symbiotic algae found in shallow-water corals, rely on passing currents for sustenance. The team's research will shed light on the intricate relationship between water column dynamics, physical reef features, and coral survival. Additionally, the connection between geology and coral fine-scale distribution will be examined to better comprehend the environmental conditions shaping these vertical reefs.
The heart of this expedition lies in the deployment of the ultra-high-resolution laser scanner, which will create a detailed 3D reconstruction of the coral habitat, including cliff morphology and biological layers. Using the ROV SuBastian as a survey vehicle, the team will map these vertical reefs with unparalleled precision, allowing for the study of organism distribution, biodiversity, coral growth, and the identification of individual species. This digital reconstruction will provide accessible insights for scientists and the public alike.
The insights gained from this expedition will not only advance our understanding of these understudied ecosystems but also provide a critical reference point for evaluating human impact and shaping future conservation efforts. Voyis is honored to contribute its cutting-edge technology, the Insight Micro laser scanner, to support this vital research mission in the Galápagos Islands.
FET appoints new lead to grow its energy transition portfolio
Forum Energy Technologies (FET) has appointed its first ever energy transition business development manager within its subsea business, reinforcing the company’s commitment to helping operators achieve greater carbon emission improvements.
Martin Thomson, who will be based at the company’s Aberdeen office, brings with him a wealth of experience in both the subsea and offshore wind sectors as the firm seeks to bolster its influence in the market. Martin has previously held senior sales positions at Subsea7, GE Oil & Gas, KCA Deutag and Oerlikon Surface Solutions. He joins FET from Dril-Quip where he was director of sales – Europe and Africa.
His appointment marks an exciting milestone for FET as it intensifies its commitment to supporting the transition of the energy landscape, particularly in offshore wind energy. Martin will report directly to FET’s Houston headquarters.
Ivo Bozukov, FET Vice President of Dynacon & Energy Transition, Subsea Division, said: “With his extensive background and leadership acumen, Martin will be instrumental in fortifying our efforts to amplify our footprint in the offshore wind sector. His strategic vision and dynamic approach will play a pivotal role in harnessing our capabilities to align with the burgeoning demand for renewable energy solutions.
“Martin's deep understanding of the complexities and nuances within the renewable energy sphere, especially offshore wind projects, positions him perfectly to lead the charge in steering our endeavours towards sustainable energy practices. His proficiency in fostering impactful relationships, coupled with his innovative mindset, will be invaluable assets as we navigate the evolving landscape of energy transition.”
FET has a long history of delivering safe, reliable and cost-efficient innovative technology, with its products and solutions helping organisations to reduce their carbon emissions. Within the energy transition, FET also works with offshore fixed wind and carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects and provides enhanced solutions to new energy markets, including geothermal, floating offshore wind, solar, and long-term energy storage.
Martin said: “I am excited to be joining FET at what is a crucial period for the company as it ramps up its business in the offshore wind sector alongside wider expansion within the organisation. I have long admired FET from afar and I am motivated by the opportunity to drive growth and strengthen FET’s position within the emerging energy transition sector of our industry.”
Within the subsea industry, FET’s extensive product line focuses on remote intervention technology, from subsea trenchers to tooling and individual components such as thrusters. Its Perry® and Sub-Atlantic® range of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), tether management systems, tooling and components is one of most comprehensive and highly rated in the industry. FET’s Dynacon brand range focuses on Launch And Recovery Systems (LARS) for ROVs, Hydrographic Winches and specialized engineered equipment serving the offshore wind industry as well as more traditional energy specifications.
The Hydrographic Society UK & Ireland announce Remote Hydrography 2024 conference to take place 27-28 February
The Hydrographic Society UK & Ireland (THS:UKI) is delighted to announce its flagship conference, Remote Hydrography 2024, to be held 27-28 February 2024 in Dublin Castle.
To register to attend the event, visit: Remote Hydrography 2024 - Tickets. THS:UKI Members can take advantage of reduced rates.
The THS:UKI’s second Remote Hydrography conference and exhibition in conjunction with INFOMAR is returning to Dublin. This event brings together manufacturers, operators, regulators, and research and development leaders from both industry and academia, within the rapidly developing field of remote surveying and uncrewed survey operations.
Remote Hydrography 2024 provides an opportunity to share experience gained in the development and application of autonomous and uncrewed platforms (surface, underwater, aerial, and space-based) and the associated command and support services. These and enabling technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence will revolutionise workflows for hydrographic data collection, processing, analysis, and presentation.
The conference will build on the success of the 2022 event which featured informative lively debates, both in session and during the busy social programme. The 2024 event will also provide formal and informal opportunities to network, make contacts, and build relationships. Through leaders, innovators, and practitioners, Remote Hydrography represents a key opportunity for networking, promotion, and demonstrations.
For further details, email: [email protected].
