Vaarst goes deep to develop another global subsea first
Vaarst, a leader in accelerating data intelligence, has developed the world’s first real-time data collection system capable of building live 3D reconstructions in deep waters down to 6000m/19685ft feet.
This depth of operation was requested by the marine ecology and salvage industries and will also be of use to the energy industry. Industries that explore and operate in deepwater sites around the world including South America, in the Gulf of Mexico and West Africa can now deploy Vaarst’s industry leading SubSLAM® X2 technology to deliver complete spatial reconstructions to advance understanding of challenging subsea environments using SubSLAM® Deeper.
Vaarst’s technology enables complete, accurate subsea data capture and intelligence for faster and easier decision making. SubSLAM® X2 is the first real-time system to deliver dense point cloud data with perfect relative positioning and sub-millimetre precision underwater.
Developed in the UK, SubSLAM® addresses many time-consuming disadvantages of conventional inspection procedures while delivering more detailed, quantifiable datasets faster than previously available. Applications across projects range from asset integrity, UWILD, subsea metrology for construction projects, decommissioning, retrofit engineering, UXO clearance and defect analysis.
The latest addition to the SubSLAM® X2 family, Deeper, triples the capability of Vaarst’s existing deepwater system which operates down to 2000m/6562ft. Vaarst also has a shallow water system which operates to depths of 300m/984ft.
Fully tested to a depth of 6700m, well beyond a 10% threshold, SubSLAM® Deeper’s hardware was proven to be robust enough to withstand intense pressure while its ruggedised software and measurement performance was not affected by greater deepwater operation. It is already successfully operational in the Gulf.
In keeping with other SubSLAM® X2 models, 3D reconstructions can be generated simultaneously while performing visual inspections. Reconstructions and inspection data can be live streamed to devices anywhere in the world over low bandwidth links (≤200kbps), enabling real-time assessment and remote manipulation of view and measurements.
Joe Tidball, Vaarst Business Unit Director, explained why this was an important addition to the SubSLAM® X2 family which will bring benefits to a wide range of customers around the world.
“As the subsea industry moves to using 3D data more often as a standard deliverable, we were continually asked to support projects beyond the 2000m rating of our existing SubSLAM systems. We’ve built on the verified X2 platform to create a system that can be used by engineers, researchers and surveyors that need accurate 3D modelling and precise measurements to de-risk and verify their deepwater activities.”
“SubSLAM Deeper’s unique ability to function at depths far below what’s currently offered gives operators the capability to explore new fields in even deeper, more hostile environments.
“While immediately serving the energy industry, SubSLAM® Deeper has application in other sectors, including marine salvage. Having access to complete and accurate data about deep underwater structures will enable their condition to be assessed, whether they can be recovered and determine if they pose an environmental hazard through, for example, damage that could leak fluids.
“SubSLAM® Deeper provides marine ecologists with the capability of mapping deep sea environments to assess species density, habitat morphology or monitor changes over time.”
Proven to be an industry game changer, SubSLAM® utilises a 4K stereo camera pair to provide exceptional resolution video while simultaneously create dense 3D point clouds at sub-millimetre accuracy. By using stereo imagery no scale bars are required, speeding up operations through more straightforward task plans.
Mounted on any ROV carrying out a visual inspection, SubSLAM® proves inspection coverage allowing work to be complete in a fraction of the time of other systems. This reduces potential for unnecessary additional mobilisations bringing cost and efficiency benefits to customers.
SubSLAM®, SubSLAM®Deep and SubSLAM® Deeper are available to purchase or day rate hire with systems ready to ship globally.
Unique Group broadens Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) portfolio with the launch of two new models tailored for diverse applications
Unique Group, global innovators in subsea technologies and engineering, has announced the launch of two Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs), the Uni-Mini and Uni-Max. The USV systems have been developed entirely in-house, designed for surveying operations and engineered to meet diverse operational needs across challenging environments.
The new addition of these USVs further enhances Unique Group’s USV fleet as the company can now provide clients with specific USVs ranging from small, medium and large sizes based on project applications. The Uni-Mini USV is an economical, compact and lightweight vehicle that can be effortlessly operated by just two people, ensuring quick and hassle-free deployment. It has been specifically engineered for shallow water surveys, offering an unprecedented level of convenience and versatility. With the ability to integrate seamlessly with a wide range of transducers and GPS systems, the Uni-Mini can execute various survey tasks with minimal effort and manpower.
The Uni-Max USV incorporates a Hybrid Power System, integrating a generator with a diesel tank and solar PV cells. This new addition significantly extends operational capabilities, enabling prolonged missions in remote or demanding terrains. This advanced USV is designed to allow surveying in locations and situations where deploying conventional platforms proves impracticable. Featuring two Torqeedo Cruise 6.0RS Engines with Hydraulic Steering, the Uni-Max ensures unparalleled performance and manoeuvrability.
Sahil Gandhi, CEO of Unique Group commented: “Our first mid-range USV, Uni-Pact, introduced in 2020, has gained global acclaim for its capabilities. The recent additions to our USV lineup, Uni-Mini and Uni-Max, underscore Unique Group's commitment to providing cost-effective solutions. These vessels prioritise compactness, ease of use, and outstanding performance, reinforcing our dedication to offering solutions that enhance operational efficiency for our customers. I am particularly proud of Unique Group's achievements in R&D and in-house engineering, which have played a pivotal role in bringing these innovative vessels to the market."
Unique Group’s Uni-Mini USV has already made significant strides in the market, having been deployed on key projects in the Middle East for shallow water bathymetric surveying. In collaboration with a prominent EPC company, the Uni-Mini has delivered outstanding survey results, showcasing its efficiency and reliability in real-world applications.
As Unique Group celebrates its 30-year anniversary this year, this milestone is marked by increased Research and Development (R&D) efforts across all its divisions and multi-million-dollar CAPEX investments to further enhance its portfolio of survey equipment globally.
Navigation risk assessment underway for SSEN Transmission Spittal to Peterhead subsea cable link
Specialist shipping, navigation and maritime risk consultancy, NASH Maritime, has been appointed to undertake the navigation risk assessment for the proposed offshore HVDC transmission connection between Spittal and Peterhead.
The Spittal to Peterhead HVDC Project is a 2GW transmission reinforcement and is part of the Pathway to 2030 Holistic Network Design (HND) which is being delivered through the Ofgem Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investments (ASTI) framework.
NASH Maritime is part of the project marine team led by MarineSpace to identify, assess, evaluate and propose controls/mitigations for any shipping and navigation risks or impacts associated with initial proposed corridors for the subsea power cable. The data will be used for detailed engineering and environmental assessment of potential cable routes with the corridor.
Jamie Holmes, NASH Project Director, said:
“We’re delighted to be appointed as the shipping and navigation specialist advisor to this project.
“Together with our extensive experience and expertise in cable assessments, we’re familiar with the region and local stakeholders having undertaken a range of assessments for other developments in the area across multiple sectors.
“To undertake the navigation risk assessment we will combine our specialist knowledge and practical experience of maritime risk with our advanced data processing and analysis skills”.
Fugro gains full ownership of SEA-KIT International, strengthening its leadership in marine robotics solutions
Fugro is pleased to announce it has reached a binding agreement for the acquisition of the remaining shares in SEA-KIT International, a long-standing partner in the development of hi-tech uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) for low carbon emission maritime operations and research.
For several years, Fugro and SEA-KIT have collaborated closely to push the boundaries of USV technology, achieving numerous breakthroughs and milestones along the way, including:
- Delivery of the first commercially available remotely operated USV and electric powered remotely operated vehicle (ROV) combi solution to the offshore asset inspection and monitoring market;
- Approvals from various authorities in Europe, Middle East and Australia to operate the jointly developed USV and ROV combi solution through a global network of remote operations centres;
- Delivery of five Fugro Blue Essence® 12 metre USVs spread across all key regions;
- Completing the world’s first fully remote inspection of offshore wind farm assets carried out by an USV and integrated ROV;
- Winning multiple awards globally for our innovations contributing to safer, faster and more sustainable offshore operations.
Ben Simpson, CEO and founder of SEA-KIT International, has been a key leader in the partnership, playing a fundamental role in reshaping the maritime industry. His entrepreneurialism was instrumental in the growth and success of the SEA-KIT business. Under Ben's leadership, SEA-KIT fostered a culture of innovation, excellence and adaptability, propelling the company to the forefront of the autonomous maritime industry.
“We are excited to welcome the talented SEA-KIT team into the Fugro family," said Henk van Dalen, Director Blue Robotics at Fugro. "We look forward to leveraging their knowledge and growing the SEA-KIT product offering to the maritime industry as we continue to drive innovation in this space. We are committed to ensuring a smooth integration process and will work closely with our new team members to maximise the value delivered to our combined customer base.”
The transaction is expected to be completed before the end of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions. SEA-KIT will continue to provide clients with high-quality USV products for cost-effective operations with enhanced safety and significantly reduced carbon emissions. New advancements to look forward to in the wake of this acquisition includes the launch of the next generation of USVs, the Blue Eclipse® 18 metre USV specially designed for fast pipeline and deep-water asset inspection activities, as well as a zero-emissions hydrogen-powered USV.
Unmanned vessel data collection marks new era in oceanography
Heralding a new zero-carbon era for ocean observations, a wave-propelled uncrewed surface vessel (USV) has for the first time successfully recovered scientific data from a sensor moored 1,800 metres deep in the Rockall Trough.
The USV, deployed by the Oban-based Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) and manufactured by AutoNaut in the UK, remotely collected data from the Sonardyne Fetch AZA bottom pressure recorders (BPRs), before sending it back to oceanographers on shore via satellite.
Scientists say the successful mission is a step change in how oceanographic data is collected and reduces the reliance on ships for deep sea fieldwork.
Prof Mark Inall, an oceanographer SAMS, said: “This is an incredible achievement by the team at SAMS and our partners at AutoNaut and Sonardyne. We believe it is the first example of through-water communications of ocean climate research data to an autonomous vehicle, and instant transmission of data to shore.
“It has never been more important to have accurate and up-to-date measurements about what is happening in our ocean, which is undergoing major and rapid changes in the face of climate change.
“While traditional ship-based observations provide the most reliable data, such scientific cruises take some time to organise, are expensive and produce a large carbon footprint. This Autonaut mission feels like a major milestone for oceanography as it opens up a new way of collecting more data, more regularly, which is key to improving climate predictions and helping us to prepare for what the future may hold.”
Last year SAMS deployed two BPRs on the seabed of the Atlantic Ocean: in the Rockall Trough, west of the UK, and in the Labrador Sea, east of Canada. Based on the weight of the water above it, the instrument can detect a change in pressure that is the equivalent to a sea-surface height change of one centimetre.
By comparing the sea surface height on the western and eastern flanks of the Atlantic Ocean, oceanographers can calculate the speed and strength of vast ocean currents that dictate much of Earth’s climate.
As the BPRs will remain on the seabed for up to 10 years, the previously held expectation was that ship-based cruises would be the only way to remotely retrieve their data.
However, by equipping the five-metre AutoNaut USV, named Jura, with a Sonardyne HPT 3000 transceiver it was able to link to the acoustic through-water comms transmitter on the bottom of the mooring to successfully retrieve the data recorded so far. After analysis of the data, scientists sent Jura back and over several days fine-tuned the calibration of the bottom sensor.
AutoNaut founding Director Mike Poole said: “This is the first time in the 10 years of AutoNaut’s experience we have been asked can we get zero carbon data, not the cheapest data. It is a practical and positive response to climate change.
“As wave propelled USVs that are self-righting in the event of capsize, AutoNauts are well suited to very long endurance missions in the open ocean. Importantly, this will probably become much cheaper than sending manned, diesel-fuelled ships.”
The mission was part of the Future Marine Research Infrastructure (FMRI) programme, funded by UK Research and Innovation’s Natural Environment Research Council (UKRI-NERC).
Leigh Storey, Senior Responsible Owner for FMRI, applauded the ambition shown by SAMS and welcomed the successful result. He said: “As we carefully consider what the UK’s future marine research infrastructure needs to include to enable frontier science, the innovative use of new technology and the adoption of novel scientific techniques demonstrated here is hugely important.”
Through the FMRI programme, NERC is considering what mix of technologies (sustainably fuelled ‘green’ research ships, autonomous robots fitted with novel marine sensors and the digital infrastructure required to optimise its use) will be required in the next decade. Extensive engagement with the science community, ongoing trials of new technology and early engagement with UK industry will be prioritised over the next 12 months.
Aidan Thorn, Business Development Manager - Marine Robotics at Sonardyne, said: “We’re delighted to be working with environmentally aware customers and USV developers, such as SAMS and AutoNaut, to show how marine robotics can be used for zero carbon data harvesting. The potential benefits of this technology in all marine industries are immense and could revolutionise the way we manage ocean data collection in the future.”
GeoAcoustics appoints new channel partner to help grow hydroacoustic technology market in Singapore
GeoAcoustics Ltd continues to expand its global sales and support network with this week’s appointment of its first channel partner in Singapore, Hidrokinetik Technologies Pte Ltd. A Hidrokinetik Group company, Hidrokinetik Technologies is one of South East Asia’s primary providers of hydrographic and geophysical services, and an established subsea technology rental company.
Concluded as part of a recent visit to Kuala Lumpur by GeoAcoustics’ Chief Commercial Officer Richard Dowdeswell, the new partner agreement brings the established bathymetric sonar, sub-bottom profiler and side scan sonar manufacturer’s total number of channel partners to 57, serving a total of 68 countries worldwide.
Hidrokinetik Technologies is heavily invested in research and development at its unmanned technology facility located at the International Islamic University Malaysia and is regarded as one of South-East Asia’s pioneers in the design, development and deployment of Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV). The company currently owns the largest fleet of Autonomous Surface Vessels in the region and is also recognised as a key Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) expert.
“Our strategy to ensure we are closer to our customers wherever they are depends on building strong relationships with experts serving local and regional markets, and we are confident that the Hidrokinetik Technologies team possesses the knowledge and experience to promote and support our products across a diverse customer base and wider market,” said Richard Dowdeswell, CCO, GeoAcoustics Ltd.
“We’re impressed by GeoAcoustics innovations including the new AI data processing for GeoSwath 4 bathymetric sonars and sure that Hidrokinetik’s diversified track record in the hydrographic and geophysical business will enhance the presence of the GeoSwath, GeoPulse and Pulsar product lines in Singapore and the APAC region, especially as they are so suited to data acquisition in the challenging, turbid waters local to us,” said Mirza Hamza, Technical Director, Hidrokinetik.
6,000m open face rated coax cable assemblies introduced by BIRNS
BIRNS, Inc. is adding impressive new meaning to its tagline of High Performance Under Pressure, with groundbreaking new capabilities for its lines of deep submergence RF connectors and cable assemblies. Recent stringent testing has led to coax “1C” contact configurations of the popular BIRNS Millennium™ connector series to receive certification to open face pressure to 6km.
This is not the first breakthrough in RF technology for BIRNS—the company developed new coax contacts several years ago that were tested to withstand open face hydrostatic pressure to 1,443m. Its RF advancements were already leading the industry in low insertion losses and high frequency capability matched with pressure resistance capabilities—with proprietary technology providing maximum insertion losses of ≤0.7 dB UHF insertion loss and ≤1.7:1 VSWR at 3GHz.
However, the new 40 cycle open face hydrostatic testing protocols yielded even lower insertion losses: at 8800 psi, losses of only -0.35dB at 3.0 GHz with a VSWR of 1.2. The new certification of 6km open faced resistance will provide a wider range of highly advanced connectivity options for developers of subsea systems, according to BIRNS.
delResearch LLC chosen by the Office of Naval Research for advanced underwater communication technology development
delResearch LLC, the innovative creator behind the Popoto Modem brand of acoustic modems, proudly announces its selection by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) to contribute to the PHYSICAL AND NETWORKING LAYER PROTOTYPE (PNLP) project, under the Broad Agency Announcement N00014-23-S-BC05 BAA.
This pivotal collaboration marks a significant stride in underwater communication technology, showcasing delResearch LLC's commitment to advancing the field. The company's expertise in acoustic modem technology will play a crucial role in enhancing the United States Navy’s capabilities beneath the waves.
"We are thrilled to be chosen by the ONR and are ready to bring our A-game to the PNLP team," said James DellaMorte, Owner of delResearch LLC. "Our participation in this project is not just a milestone for the company but also a testament to the potential of our technologies to redefine underwater communications."
The partnership with ONR will not only benefit the Navy but is also expected to push the boundaries of what's possible for delResearch LLC, fostering innovation and elevating the state of the art in the field.
"The synergy between our vision for acoustic communication and the Navy's operational needs is clear," added DellaMorte. "We are eager to embark on this journey and see where this collaboration leads us in the realm of underwater communication and beyond."
Teledyne announces the 2023 Marine Photo and Data Contest winners: Celebrating excellence in marine imagery
Teledyne is thrilled to announce the 2023 Marine Photo and Data Contest winners. With an overwhelming response from participants around the world, this year's competition showcased the incredible talent and dedication of marine professionals and enthusiasts.
The Teledyne Marine Photo and Data Contest received an abundance of remarkable entries across five distinct categories, highlighting the diverse and dynamic world of marine exploration, innovation, and challenges.
Selecting the winners from a pool of extraordinary entries was daunting, as the quality and creativity on display were exceptional. The Teledyne judging panel was deeply impressed by all participants' dedication, ingenuity, and artistry.
Each winner has been informed directly and will receive prises recognising their outstanding contributions to the marine photography community.
Teledyne extends its heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and our sincere appreciation to everyone who participated in the 2023 Marine Photo Contest. Your dedication to capturing the marine world's beauty, challenges, and triumphs inspires us all.
Click here to view the winners.
Makai Ocean Engineering Partners with Shell to revolutionise ocean thermal energy conversion
Makai Ocean Engineering is pleased to announce that it has signed an agreement with Shell Technology - Marine Renewable Program to further develop and test potentially transformative proprietary technologies that advance the engineering and economic viability of an offshore Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) system.
Makai’s unique concepts for OTEC systems and cutting edge heat exchanger, the Thin Foil Heat Exchanger (TFHX), hold the potential to reduce the capital costs and operating costs of an offshore OTEC system. A key part of this study is to work with Shell to accelerate the timeframe for reaching true economic viability of OTEC systems.
"Makai's legacy with OTEC R&D spans nearly half a century. As we look ahead, our enthusiasm only grows. Partnering with Shell Technology - Marine Renewable Program provides an avenue to translate our research into actionable and commercially viable solutions," says Richard Argall, Ocean Energy Division Head at Makai. "Makai’s and Shell’s shared vision is to harness marine energy sustainably, and together, we are poised to make that vision a reality."
“We congratulate the exceptional team at Makai for pursuing innovation in OTEC technologies and establishing themselves as a leader in the industry. As we continue to explore how to achieve more value with lower emissions through promising marine renewable energy systems, we are excited that Makai is one of our first major partners in the OTEC space,” Dr. Pak Leung, Marine Renewable Program Manager, Shell Technology.
Makai Ocean Engineering was founded in 1973 as a diversified ocean engineering company focused on providing innovative solutions to its clients’ most challenging problems in the ocean world. Makai’s commitment to R&D in ocean-based renewable energy is unwavering. As early adopters of OTEC technology since the 1970s, Makai continues its mission to exploit practical applications of both existing and emerging technologies to unlock the vast energy potential of our oceans. The development of Makai’s critical heat exchanger technologies was made possible with the support of United States Office of Naval Research.
Shell Technology - Marine Renewable Program is pursuing the mission of finding, screening, testing, and developing marine renewable energy technologies to achieve more value with lower emissions and help build the critical energy infrastructure for the Blue Economy to grow and thrive.
This partnership not only signifies progress in marine renewable energy but also stands as a testament to the future of sustainable ocean solutions.